There’s something truly delightful about transforming simple ingredients into a colorful feast for the senses. When I first set out to create these Striped Sugar Cookies, I envisioned a playful, vibrant treat that could brighten any dessert table. The moment you slice into them, their layered hues come to life, creating a stunning visual that’s just as enticing as the taste.
Recently, I found myself looking to elevate traditional cookies, moving beyond the usual chocolate chips and oatmeal. I stumbled upon the concept of layering colors and flavors, and it felt like a joyful experiment waiting to happen. These cookies are not just about their eye-catching appearance; they’re easy to make and crowd-pleasers that can fit into any celebration—from birthday parties to cozy family gatherings.
So, grab your apron, prepare to unleash your creativity, and let’s dive into the world of these delightful striped sugar cookies that promise to bring smiles to every cookie lover around!
Why are Striped Sugar Cookies so special?
Unique Presentation: The vibrant layers of color elevate the humble sugar cookie into an artistic treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these stunning cookies without the fuss.
Flavorful Twist: Infused with lemon zest and vanilla, each bite is bursting with delightful flavor, a step above traditional options.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From festive gatherings to everyday snacks, these cookies are versatile enough to fit any celebration or casual moment.
Family Fun: Get everyone involved in the colorful layering process—creating these cookies becomes a memorable experience, not just a baking task!
Striped Sugar Cookie Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for your colorful cookie creation.
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – This forms the base of your Striped Sugar Cookies.
- Baking powder – Ensures your cookies rise perfectly and have a delightful texture.
- Table salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a rich taste.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their lovely texture.
- Large egg yolks – Adds richness and helps to bind the dough together.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, classic flavor into your cookies.
- Grated lemon zest – Brightens up the flavor profile and complements the sweetness.
For the Decoration
- Food coloring – Choose vibrant colors to make your striped cookies stand out visually.
- White sanding sugar – Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and festive sparkle.
How to Make Striped Sugar Cookies
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Whisk Together: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of table salt until well combined. This foundational mix will give your cookies fantastic structure.
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Beat Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 1/4 cups of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar on medium-high speed. Continue until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl!
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Add Egg Yolks & Flavor: Add the 2 large egg yolks one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and a teaspoon of grated lemon zest for a delightful flavor twist.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed for about 1 minute until just combined. Scrape the bowl and beat for an additional 10 seconds to ensure everything is mixed perfectly.
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Divide and Color: Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and place each in a separate bowl. Add your desired food coloring to each bowl and knead until the colors are fully blended. This is where the fun begins!
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Portion the Dough: Take each color of dough and divide it into 3 portions: approximately 1 3/4 ounces, 3 1/2 ounces, and 5 1/2 ounces. Repeat this process for all colored doughs for an even layering effect.
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Roll and Stack: On a floured work surface, roll each colored portion into a 7 1/2 x 3 1/2-inch slab. Stack the slabs, varying the color pattern, and lightly brush the tops with water before stacking. Wrap the stack in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until firm.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and place racks in the upper and lower third positions. Line 2 to 3 baking sheets with parchment paper, ready for all those colorful cookies!
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Trim and Cut: Once firm, trim the dough stack sides to create clean edges. Cut the stack lengthwise to form two slimmer stacks, about 1 1/2 x 7 1/2 inches each, for easy handling.
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Slice Cookies: Slice each slim stack into 1/4-inch-thick cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie. Sprinkle with white sanding sugar for that festive sparkle.
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Bake Away: Bake the cookies on the upper and lower racks, rotating the sheets halfway through, for about 10 minutes or until the bottoms are light golden. Once baked, cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Repeat the process with any remaining dough.
Optional: For extra flair, drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Striped Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their baking routine! You can prepare the colored dough layers up to 3 days in advance. After rolling and stacking the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This not only makes the dough easier to slice but also enhances the flavors as it sits. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the dough from the fridge, slice into cookies, and bake as directed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delicious, colorful cookies ready to impress with minimal last-minute effort!
How to Store and Freeze Striped Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep baked striped sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container after about 2 hours. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies straight from the freezer, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or you can briefly warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain that fresh-baked taste.
Tips for the Best Striped Sugar Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the layered dough long enough to become very firm. This helps retain the shape while baking and avoids spreading.
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Colorful Kneading: When adding food coloring, knead until the color is evenly distributed. This ensures vibrant layers without marbling, enhancing the cookie’s visual appeal.
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Even Thickness: Aim for consistent thickness when rolling out the dough slabs. This guarantees uniform baking and prevents uneven textures in your striped sugar cookies.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake—remove them from the oven when they’re light golden to ensure they remain soft and chewy inside.
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Spacing Matters: Make sure to leave enough space between cookies on the baking sheet. This allows for even puffing and prevents them from sticking together.
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Fun with Decoration: Experiment with different colors and patterns! Get creative with how you layer and shape the dough to make your striped sugar cookies uniquely yours.
Striped Sugar Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize these cookies to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative that keeps the texture just right.
You can still enjoy the layering fun without compromising the taste or texture. -
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of unsalted butter to create a dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy.
These swaps lend a subtle twist, ensuring no one misses out on the deliciousness! -
Add Nuts: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the dough for a delightful crunch and added flavor boost.
The contrasting texture pairs beautifully with the softness of your cookies, elevating each heavenly bite. -
Chocolate Swirl: Mix in cocoa powder to one of the dough portions for a chocolate layer.
A delightful surprise awaits with each bite that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of sugar cookies! -
Citrus Variants: Experiment with different zests like orange or lime instead of lemon for a unique flavor profile.
These citrus variations not only brighten the cookies but also provide a refreshing twist that dazzles the senses. -
Spiced Up: Add ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, seasonal flavor that makes these cookies perfect for any holiday gathering.
This spice twist brings a whole new level of comfort to your baking! -
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer to create a vegan-friendly cookie version.
This way, everyone gets to indulge without missing out on these vibrant delights! -
Swapping Sugars: Try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor and a chewier texture.
This simple swap can turn your striped sugar cookies into a rich and satisfying treat that keeps you coming back for more!
What to Serve with Striped Sugar Cookies?
Imagine enjoying a plate of vibrant cookies alongside delightful pairings that elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Milk Splash: A tall glass of cold milk provides the classic pairing that complements the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly. Every bite of the cookie becomes more satisfying when dipped in creamy goodness.
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Fruity Sorbet: A scoop of tangy mango or raspberry sorbet adds a refreshing contrast. The cool, fruity flavor brightens up the cookies’ richness, creating a delightful palate experience.
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Chocolate Fondue: Serve with warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience. Guests can dip pieces of the striped sugar cookies into the velvety chocolate, creating a sweet, indulgent moment.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi slices provide a light and refreshing element. The natural sweetness of the fruit beautifully balances the layered cookie experience, offering a burst of freshness.
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Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of chamomile or mint tea can enhance the overall experience. The gentle, soothing flavors offer a charming contrast to the rich and sweet cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream Float: For a fun twist, create a float with vanilla ice cream and soda. The creamy texture of the ice cream pairs fabulously with the cookie, making for a joyful and celebratory dessert.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness. This decadent sauce enhances the cookies’ flavors and adds a luxurious touch.
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Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese could provide a savory counterpart to the sweetness of the cookies, making for an intriguing contrast that surprises your taste buds.
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Coffee or Espresso: A freshly brewed cup of coffee or a shot of espresso brings a warm, rich flavor to the pairing. The bitterness of the coffee contrasts beautifully with the sugars in the cookies, creating a balanced treat.
Striped Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of food coloring should I use for Striped Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! You can use gel food coloring for vibrant and rich hues that won’t alter the dough’s consistency. Liquid dyes work too, but can sometimes make the dough a bit runnier, so use them sparingly.
How should I store my Striped Sugar Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a week, the fridge is perfect—just ensure they’re well sealed to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze Striped Sugar Cookies?
Very! To freeze, place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 2 hours. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe container where they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you want one, just thaw it at room temperature!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much, it might be due to insufficient chilling of the dough before baking. Make sure to chill the layered dough until very firm, ideally for at least 2 hours, to ensure the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well for a deliciously safe treat.
Are Striped Sugar Cookies safe for pets?
Not at all! These cookies contain ingredients, such as sugar and butter, that aren’t healthy for pets. It’s best to keep them away from our furry friends, as certain ingredients can be harmful to animals.
Striped Sugar Cookies: Delightfully Colorful & Easy to Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of table salt until well combined.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1 1/4 cups of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the 2 large egg yolks one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition, then mix in 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and a teaspoon of grated lemon zest.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed for about 1 minute until just combined, then scrape the bowl and beat for an additional 10 seconds.
- Divide the dough into 3 equal portions and place each in a separate bowl. Add food coloring to each bowl and knead until the colors are fully blended.
- Take each color of dough and divide it into 3 portions: approximately 1 3/4 ounces, 3 1/2 ounces, and 5 1/2 ounces.
- On a floured work surface, roll each colored portion into a 7 1/2 x 3 1/2-inch slab, stack the slabs, and brush the tops with water before stacking. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line 2 to 3 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Once firm, trim the dough stack sides and cut lengthwise to form two slimmer stacks, about 1 1/2 x 7 1/2 inches each.
- Slice each slim stack into 1/4-inch-thick cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets, sprinkling with white sanding sugar.
- Bake for about 10 minutes or until the bottoms are light golden, then cool on the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.