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Grinch Sugar Cookies

Grinch Sugar Cookies - featured image

These festive Grinch Sugar Cookies are soft, tender, and vibrantly green with a signature red heart candy—perfect for Christmas parties, gifting, or holiday movie nights. Quick and easy to make, they bring nostalgic comfort and cheerful fun to any celebration.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon green gel food coloring (more as needed)
  • 3040 red heart-shaped candy sprinkles
  • Powdered sugar (optional, for rolling)

Instructions

  1. Measure and prep all ingredients. Soften butter and preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully incorporated.
  5. Add green gel food coloring and mix on low speed until the color is vibrant and evenly distributed.
  6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom as needed.
  7. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes (optional but recommended for tender cookies).
  8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough (about 1-inch balls). Roll each ball smooth and, if desired, roll lightly in powdered sugar.
  9. Arrange dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Press a single red heart candy gently into the center of each ball.
  10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set but centers are still soft and puffy. Do not overbake.
  11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. If cookies spread too much, chill dough longer or add a touch more flour. If hearts pop off, press them in just after baking while cookies are warm.

Notes

Chilling the dough helps keep cookies thick and tender. Use gel food coloring for vibrant color. For gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan adaptations, swap flour, butter, or egg as needed. Cookies can be made ahead, stored airtight for 5 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Press heart candies in gently to avoid sinking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Grinch cookies, Christmas cookies, sugar cookies, holiday baking, festive treats, easy cookies, kid-friendly, party dessert