Looking for a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than these Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies with Caramel Buttercream. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a crowd-pleaser for sure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of vanilla bean and caramel flavors creates a rich and indulgent taste that you won’t be able to resist.
- With simple ingredients and quick prep time, these cookies are perfect for when you need a last-minute dessert option.
- These cookies are versatile and can be customized with different sprinkles and decorations, making them perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredient Notes:
Cookies:
- Unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and flavor to the cookies.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps with the texture.
- Vanilla bean, seeds removed (optional): Adds a subtle vanilla flavor and specks throughout the dough.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the vanilla flavor in the cookies.
- Almond extract (optional): Adds a hint of almond flavor for a unique twist.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cookies.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Buttercream Frosting:
- Salted butter: Adds richness and flavor to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce: Adds a decadent caramel flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- Heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the frosting.
- Assorted sprinkles for decorating: Adds a fun and colorful touch to the cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla bean seeds, vanilla extract, almond extract, and eggs. Mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until they are lightly golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before frosting.
Buttercream Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the salted butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the salted caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Mix until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Frost the cooled cookies and decorate with assorted sprinkles.
Helpful Tips:
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Swap out the caramel sauce for chocolate ganache for a different flavor profile.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality vanilla bean for the best flavor.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut for unique flavor variations.
Serving Suggestions:
These Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies with Caramel Buttercream pair perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. Serve them at parties, bake sales, or as a special treat for yourself.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store the frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the cookies for a few seconds to soften the frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? While margarine can be used, butter will yield better flavor and texture.
- Can I omit the almond extract? Yes, you can omit the almond extract if you prefer a more traditional vanilla flavor.
Conclusion:
These Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies with Caramel Buttercream are a decadent treat that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Give them a try and let us know what you think!
Print
Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies with Caramel Buttercream Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of vanilla bean sugar cookies topped with luscious caramel buttercream frosting. These decadent treats are perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 3 sticks (1 1/2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, seeds removed (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 4 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Buttercream Frosting
- 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2–4 tablespoons heavy cream
- Assorted sprinkles for decorating
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: Cream butter, sugar, vanilla bean seeds, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt. Chill dough.
- Bake the Cookies: Roll out dough, cut shapes, and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Buttercream: Beat butter, powdered sugar, caramel sauce, and vanilla. Add cream for desired consistency.
- Frost the Cookies: Pipe or spread buttercream on cooled cookies. Decorate with sprinkles.
Notes
- You can substitute vanilla bean with additional vanilla extract.
- Adjust the amount of caramel sauce in the frosting for desired flavor intensity.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg