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Growing up in the bustling heart of Chicago, my kitchen was always a place of warmth and laughter, especially during family gatherings. My babcia, with her thick Polish accent and even thicker rolling pin, would often be found orchestrating a symphony of flavors that wafted through our home. One of my fondest memories is the vivid green of St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday that my family, despite our Polish roots, embraced with gusto. This was the day when our kitchen transformed into a vibrant celebration of all things green, and the star of the show was always the same: St. Patrick’s Day buttercream sugar cookies. These cookies, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet, creamy frosting, were a hit with everyone, from my kids Ella and Peter to my husband, who could never resist sneaking a few before dinner.
Today, I’m sharing this special recipe with you, a delightful blend of my Polish-American heritage and a nod to the Irish spirit that Chicago celebrates with such enthusiasm. These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a testament to the joy of family, tradition, and the simple pleasure of baking something from the heart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These St. Patrick’s Day buttercream sugar cookies are not just delicious; they’re a breeze to make. With a buttery base and a creamy, colorful frosting, they’re perfect for any festive occasion. Plus, they’re a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just in the mood for something sweet, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.
Features
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for festive occasions
- Customizable with your favorite colors and decorations
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Green food coloring
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for buttercream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for buttercream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Add green food coloring to one portion and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the buttercream, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread or pipe the buttercream onto the cooled cookies. Decorate as desired.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the dough if it becomes too soft to handle.
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant hues without altering the dough’s consistency.
When I make these cookies, my go-to tool is a trusty Silicone Utensils Set. They’re perfect for mixing the dough and spreading that luscious buttercream. And for those precise cuts, the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife is invaluable for slicing through the dough with ease. These tools make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable, so you can focus on the fun part: decorating!
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe. You can add a splash of almond extract for a different flavor profile or swap out the green food coloring for another color to suit any occasion. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also make a charming addition to any dessert platter, especially when paired with a rich chocolate cake or a tangy lemon tart.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’ve decorated them with buttercream, it’s best to keep them in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
These St. Patrick’s Day buttercream sugar cookies are more than just a festive treat; they’re a celebration of family, tradition, and the joy of baking. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do, and that they bring a little extra sweetness to your holiday celebrations.
👉 I hope you loved making these St. Patrick’s Day buttercream sugar cookies—they’re like a sweet, buttery hug in cookie form. If you’re looking for more delightful treats, why not try my Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies, Polish Apple Cake, or Lemon Drizzle Cake? Each one is a family favorite and sure to please. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Patricks Day Buttercream Sugar: 8 Sweet Recipes
A festive and delicious cookie recipe perfect for celebrating St. Patrick's Day with a buttery base and creamy frosting.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions. Add green food coloring to one portion and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely on a wire rack.