Name: Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For The Cookies:; 2¾ cups all purpose flour; 2 tsp cream of tartar; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup light brown sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; For Rolling:; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1½ tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cardamom; ½ tsp ground allspice; For the Vanilla frosting:; ½ cup unsalted butter; 2½ cups confectioner's sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 3 tbsp heavy cream; ½ scraped seeds; ⅛ tsp salt

Indulge in the delightful fusion of warm chai spices and sweet vanilla frosting with these frosted chai spice sugar cookies. Perfect for any occasion, they bring a cozy touch to your dessert table.

Photos of Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

While most ingredients are common pantry staples, you may need to pick up cream of tartar, cardamom, and vanilla bean seeds from the supermarket. These spices and additives give the cookies their distinctive flavor and texture.

Ingredients for Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

All purpose flour: The base of your cookies, providing structure and bulk.

Cream of tartar: Helps stabilize the dough and adds a slight tang.

Baking soda: Leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet spice to the cookies.

Salt: Enhances flavor by balancing sweetness.

Unsalted butter: Provides rich flavor and moisture.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps with structure.

Light brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.

Pure vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Ground ginger: Adds a hint of spice and warmth.

Ground cardamom: Provides a unique, fragrant spice note.

Ground allspice: Adds depth with its mix of clove, nutmeg, and cinnamon notes.

Confectioner's sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

Heavy cream: Adds richness and smooth texture to the frosting.

Vanilla bean seeds: Intensifies vanilla flavor and adds visual appeal.

Salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting.

One reader, Kristoffer Chou says:

These frosted chai spice sugar cookies are a delightful treat! The blend of spices is perfectly balanced, and the vanilla frosting adds a creamy sweetness that complements the cookies beautifully. They were a hit at my family gathering, and I’ll definitely be making them again!

Kristoffer Chou

Techniques Required for Making Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

How to whisk: Explanation on how to whisk ingredients together until smooth and combined. How to chill dough: Explanation on how to properly chill cookie dough and the importance of letting it sit at room temperature if chilled for a long period. How to preheat oven: Explanation on how to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. How to roll dough: Explanation on how to roll cookie dough into balls and coat them with a sugar and spice mixture. How to bake cookies: Explanation on how to bake cookies to the correct doneness. How to cool cookies: Explanation on how to cool cookies on a cookie sheet and then transfer them to a wire rack. How to beat butter: Explanation on how to beat butter until creamy using a handheld or stand mixer. How to make frosting: Explanation on how to combine ingredients to make a smooth and creamy frosting. How to frost cookies: Explanation on how to properly frost cooled cookies.

How To Make Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Chai spice sugar cookies with perfectly balanced flavors of spices and vanilla extract and vanilla beans. A creamy blend that will soothe your day.

Preparation: 1 hour 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

2¾cupsall purpose flour,(345 grams), spoon & leveled
2tspcream of tartar
1tspbaking soda
½tspground cinnamon
½tspsalt
1cupunsalted butter,(230 grams), melted
1cupgranulated sugar,(200 grams)
⅓cuplight brown sugar,(70 grams), packed
1large egg,at room temperature
2tsppure vanilla extract

For Rolling:

½cupgranulated sugar,(100 grams)
1½tspground cinnamon
1tspground ginger
1tspground cardamom
½tspground allspice

For the Vanilla Frosting:

½cupunsalted butter,(115 grams), softened to room temperature
2½cupsconfectioner’s sugar,(300 grams)
1tsppure vanilla extract
3tbspheavy cream,(45 milliliter), or milk
½scraped seeds,from of a split vanilla bean
⅛tspsalt

Instructions

When you take the butter out of the refrigerator to make the cookie dough, take out ½ cup more (1 stick) and allow it to soften as you make the cookies.

Cookies:

Toss the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until smooth.
Whisk in the egg then the vanilla until combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix together with a large spoon or rubber spatula.
Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and chill for at least 45 minutes and up to 2 days.
If chilling for longer than a few hours, be sure to let the cookie dough sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes because it will be quite hard.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
Remove the cookie dough from the refrigerator and roll 1½ Tablespoons of dough into each ball.

Rolling:

Mix the sugar and spices together in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball into the mixture to coat evenly. Place 10 balls of dough onto each cookie sheet.
Bake the cookies for 10 to 11 minutes.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the cookie sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting:

With a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy for about 2 minutes.
Add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, cream, and vanilla bean seeds with the mixer running on low. Increase to high speed and beat for 3 full minutes.
Add 1 Tablespoon more of cream if frosting is too thick.
Frost cooled cookies.

Nutrition

Calories: 271.27kcal
Fat: 12.55g
Saturated Fat: 7.81g
Trans Fat: 0.47g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.56g
Carbohydrates: 38.48g
Fiber: 0.54g
Sugar: 26.84g
Protein: 1.93g
Cholesterol: 40.82mg
Sodium: 119.72mg
Calcium: 12.81mg
Potassium: 71.50mg
Iron: 0.79mg
Vitamin A: 108.13µg
Vitamin C: 0.05mg

Technique Tips for Perfect Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

When making the cookie dough, ensure that the butter is at room temperature before mixing. This allows the butter to cream properly with the sugars, resulting in a smoother and more consistent dough. Additionally, chilling the dough is crucial as it helps to solidify the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking and ensuring a chewy texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix dry ingredients the night before to save time.

Soften butter quickly: Cut butter into small pieces to soften faster.

Chill dough efficiently: Flatten cookie dough into a disk before chilling to reduce chilling time.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform size and speeds up the rolling process.

Pre-mix rolling spices: Combine sugar and spices for rolling in advance.

Quick cooling: Transfer cookies to a wire rack immediately to cool faster.

Frosting prep: Soften butter for frosting while cookies bake to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but may make the cookies denser.
cream of tartar - Substitute with lemon juice: Provides the necessary acidity, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder, but omit the cream of tartar.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Contains cinnamon along with other spices that complement chai flavors.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a similar salty taste with a slightly different mineral profile.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Offers a similar texture and moisture content, though the flavor may differ slightly.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Adds a caramel-like flavor and is less processed.
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Adds a deeper molasses flavor.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for a vegan alternative.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Provides a different but complementary flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with turbinado sugar: Adds a slight crunch and a more complex flavor.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Offers a warm, spicy flavor that pairs well with chai spices.
ground ginger - Substitute with fresh grated ginger: Provides a more intense and fresh ginger flavor.
ground cardamom - Substitute with ground coriander: Offers a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that complements chai spices.
ground allspice - Substitute with ground cloves: Adds a warm, spicy flavor similar to allspice.
unsalted butter - Substitute with cream cheese: Adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the frosting.
confectioner's sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended into powder: Provides a similar texture and sweetness.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with vanilla bean paste: Offers a more intense vanilla flavor with visible vanilla specks.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Adds a slight coconut flavor and is a dairy-free alternative.
scraped seeds - Substitute with vanilla extract: Provides a similar vanilla flavor without the specks.
salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Offers a similar salty taste with a slightly different texture.

Presentation Ideas for Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the frosted chai spice sugar cookies in a refined manner by making smaller, bite-sized versions. This allows for a more elegant presentation and ensures each guest can enjoy a perfect mouthful.
Use decoration: Garnish each cookie with a light dusting of ground cinnamon and a few edible gold flakes to add a touch of luxury and visual appeal.
Plate arrangement: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern on a pristine white plate, with a small bowl of vanilla frosting in the center for dipping. This creates a visually appealing and interactive experience.
Add texture: Sprinkle a few crushed pistachios or candied ginger pieces around the cookies to add a contrasting texture and a pop of color.
Use elegant serving ware: Serve the cookies on a fine china plate with intricate designs or a sleek, modern platter to elevate the overall presentation.
Incorporate height: Stack a few cookies in a small tower, using a dab of vanilla frosting to hold them together. This adds height and dimension to the presentation.
Highlight ingredients: Place a few whole cardamom pods, cinnamon sticks, and star anise around the plate to showcase the spices used in the recipe, adding an aromatic element to the presentation.
Use a contrasting background: Present the cookies on a dark slate or wooden board to make the colors and textures of the cookies stand out more vividly.
Add a touch of freshness: Garnish the plate with a few fresh mint leaves or a small sprig of rosemary to add a hint of freshness and a pop of green color.
Create a theme: Incorporate elements that reflect the chai spice theme, such as a small teapot and teacup set on the side, to enhance the overall dining experience and tie the presentation together.

Storing and Freezing Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting and storing.
Store leftover frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To freeze unfrosted cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the cookies at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Frosted cookies can also be frozen, but the frosting may not maintain its texture and appearance after thawing. If you choose to freeze frosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Thaw the frosted cookies in the refrigerator before serving.
For best results, freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls, coat them in the spice mixture, and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze the dough balls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and bake as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time if needed.

Interesting Facts About Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

A random fact about this frosted chai spice sugar cookies recipe is that the combination of cardamom, cinnamon, and allspice in the cookie dough and rolling mixture gives these cookies a unique and aromatic flavor profile reminiscent of traditional chai tea.

Is Making Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This frosted chai spice sugar cookies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter are pantry staples, while the spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom might be a bit pricier but are used sparingly. The vanilla frosting adds a touch of luxury but is still affordable. Overall Verdict: 7/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Are Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The frosted chai spice sugar cookies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in sugar, with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and confectioner's sugar all being used in significant quantities. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
Butter is used in both the cookies and the frosting, contributing to the recipe's high saturated fat content. A diet high in saturated fats can increase the risk of heart disease and other health problems.
The recipe uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours.
Heavy cream is used in the frosting, further increasing the recipe's fat and calorie content.

To make the recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of sugar used in the recipe. You can experiment with using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in place of some of the granulated sugar.
Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour. These flours are more nutritious and provide additional fiber.
Use a lower fat butter alternative, such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter, in place of some or all of the butter.
Reduce the amount of frosting used on each cookie, or consider skipping the frosting altogether and enjoying the cookies on their own.
Incorporate some healthy add-ins to the cookie dough, such as finely chopped nuts or dried fruit, to boost the nutrient content.

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the frosted chai spice sugar cookies while still enjoying their delightful flavors.

Editor's Opinion on Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

This frosted chai spice sugar cookie recipe is a delightful fusion of warm spices and creamy frosting. The blend of cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and allspice in the rolling mixture adds a sophisticated depth to the cookies. The cream of tartar ensures a soft, chewy texture, while the vanilla frosting, enriched with vanilla bean seeds, provides a luxurious finish. Chilling the dough is essential for flavor development and ease of handling. Overall, this recipe is a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, making it an excellent choice for both casual gatherings and festive occasions.

Enhance Your Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine the velvety smoothness of butternut squash mingling with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon. This warm, comforting soup would be the perfect prelude to your chai spice sugar cookies, creating a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Spiced Apple Cider: Spiced Apple Cider: Picture a steaming mug of apple cider infused with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a touch of orange zest. This cozy beverage will complement the chai spices in your cookies, making each bite and sip a delightful experience.

Caramelized Pear Salad: Caramelized Pear Salad: Envision a fresh salad with mixed greens, caramelized pears, candied pecans, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The sweetness of the pears and the crunch of the pecans will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, spiced cookies.

Ginger-Glazed Carrots: Ginger-Glazed Carrots: Think of tender carrots glazed with a ginger and honey mixture, offering a sweet and slightly spicy side that pairs beautifully with the chai spices in your cookies. The vibrant color and flavor will add a touch of elegance to your dessert spread.

Cranberry Orange Relish: Cranberry Orange Relish: Visualize a tangy cranberry and orange relish with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. This zesty side dish will cut through the sweetness of the cookies, providing a refreshing burst of flavor that enhances the overall dessert experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Pumpkin Spice Snickerdoodles: Imagine the classic snickerdoodle cookie, but with a cozy twist of pumpkin and warm spices. These cookies are perfect for fall and will fill your kitchen with the most delightful aroma.

Maple Pecan Sugar Cookies: These sugar cookies are elevated with the rich flavors of maple syrup and crunchy pecans. They’re a delightful treat that combines sweetness with a nutty crunch.

Chai Spiced Shortbread: Delicate and buttery shortbread cookies infused with the aromatic spices of chai. These cookies are perfect for pairing with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies: Soft and chewy gingerbread cookies with a sweet jam center. These thumbprint cookies are a festive treat that combines the spiciness of gingerbread with the fruity sweetness of jam.

Cinnamon Roll Cookies: All the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll packed into a cookie! These cookies have a swirl of cinnamon-sugar and are topped with a sweet glaze, making them irresistible.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings with Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. Imagine earthy mushroom caps filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mixture is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, golden crust. These bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm to enjoy the full depth of their rich, creamy filling.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with this classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic for an aromatic base. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella, all drizzled with a touch of balsamic glaze. The combination of crunchy bread and juicy, flavorful toppings creates a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a hit at any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty freshness of lemon with aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps to keep it juicy and tender. After marinating, the chicken is grilled to perfection, creating a slightly charred exterior that complements the succulent interior. Serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any palate. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. The filling is cooked until the flavors meld together, then spooned into the peppers and baked until tender. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with black beans or quinoa. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for added richness.

Why trust this Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe:

This recipe combines the warm, aromatic flavors of chai spices with the classic sweetness of sugar cookies. The addition of a creamy vanilla frosting elevates these cookies to a new level of indulgence. With clear, step-by-step instructions and carefully selected ingredients like unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract, you can trust that these cookies will turn out perfectly every time. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and delicious.

Share your thoughts on this Frosted Chai Spice Sugar Cookies Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know how your cookies turned out!

FAQ:

How long do I need to chill the cookie dough?

You should chill the cookie dough for at least 45 minutes, but you can leave it in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you chill it for more than a few hours, let it sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before rolling it into balls.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter if that's what you have on hand. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe by about half to balance the flavors.

Do I have to use all the spices listed for rolling the dough?

The spices add a lot of flavor to the cookies, but if you don't have all of them, you can skip one or two. The cookies will still taste great, just with a slightly different spice profile.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should bake for 10 to 11 minutes. They might look a little soft in the center when you take them out, but they'll firm up as they cool. Let them cool on the cookie sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it come to room temperature and give it a good stir before using it to frost the cookies.