Name: Jellybean Sugar Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 2 h 26 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; ½ tsp Almond Extract; ½ tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 bag jellybeans

These delightful sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and feature a fun twist with jellybeans. They are perfect for any occasion and will surely bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. The subtle hints of almond extract and vanilla extract make these cookies especially fragrant and delicious.

Photos of Jellybean Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you don't typically bake, you might not have almond extract in your pantry. It's a potent flavoring agent that brings a unique and slightly sweet nutty flavor to the cookies. You can find it in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. Jellybeans are available in the candy section and come in a variety of flavors and colors, making your cookies vibrant and fun.

Ingredients For Jellybean Sugar Cookies

All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.

Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and buttery flavor to the cookies.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their texture.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.

Almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty flavor to the cookies.

Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and aroma of the cookies.

Jellybeans: Provide a burst of color and flavor, making the cookies fun and festive.

One reader, Cathlene Granger says:

These jellybean sugar cookies are delightful! The cookies are soft and buttery, and the jellybeans add a fun, fruity twist. Perfect for any occasion, they were a hit at my family gathering. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Cathlene Granger

Techniques for Perfect Jellybean Sugar Cookies

How to whisk: Combine the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl using a whisk to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

How to cream butter and sugar: Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.

How to mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until fully combined, resulting in a thick and slightly sticky dough.

How to scoop and roll dough: Use a tablespoon to measure out portions of dough, then roll each portion into a ball with your hands.

How to chill dough: Place the rolled dough balls onto a plate or lined baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 1 to 2 hours, or up to 4 days, to firm up the dough.

How to preheat an oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking.

How to bake cookies: Arrange the chilled dough balls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced 3 inches apart, and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly browned.

How to cool cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to press jellybeans into cookies: While the cookies are still warm, press a couple of jellybeans into the centers, allowing them to set as the cookies cool.

How To Make Jellybean Sugar Cookies

You’ll surely love these delightfully sweet and soft Jellybean Sugar Cookies! They’re easy to make, and perfect to serve to the kids for Easter.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 11 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 26 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupsall-purpose flour,spooned and leveled
1tspbaking powder
½tspsalt
½cupunsalted butter,(1 stick), softened to room temperature
1cupgranulated sugar
1large egg,room temperature
½tspalmond extract
½tsppure vanilla extract
1bagjellybeans

Instructions

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until creamed.
Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract and beat on high speed for about 1 minute until combined. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine.
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. The dough will be thick and a little sticky.
Scoop the dough, about 1 tablespoon of dough each, and roll into balls. Place the dough balls onto a large plate or lined baking sheet.
Cover and chill the cookie dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or up to 4 days.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line the baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
Arrange the chilled cookie dough balls 3-inches apart on the baking sheets.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until very lightly browned on the sides. The centers will look very soft.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes.
Press a couple of jellybeans into the centers of the warm cookies. Cool for only 3 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

The cookies stay fresh covered at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Make-Ahead and Freezing instructions: The cookie dough can be made ahead, roll into balls, and chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
The cookie dough balls freeze well for up to 3 months. Bake the frozen cookie dough balls for an extra 1 minute, no need to thaw. The baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months.
Use any favorite variety or brand of jellybeans. Purchase 1 standard bag. There will be leftovers.
Dough Chilling: Chilling the cookie dough is imperative. These cookies are very buttery and the colder the cookie dough, the less the sugar cookies will over-spread. The cookie dough can get a little hard after 1 hour in the refrigerator, so it is recommend rolling the dough into balls before chilling.

Nutrition

Calories: 92.67kcal
Fat: 3.29g
Saturated Fat: 2.01g
Trans Fat: 0.12g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.17g
Carbohydrates: 15.03g
Fiber: 0.18g
Sugar: 9.33g
Protein: 0.89g
Cholesterol: 14.33mg
Sodium: 52.15mg
Calcium: 14.29mg
Potassium: 11.64mg
Iron: 0.35mg
Vitamin A: 28.54µg

Crucial Technique for Achieving the Best Results

To ensure your butter and sugar cream together perfectly, make sure the butter is at room temperature. This will help it blend smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy mixture that will give your cookies a better texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Jellybean Sugar Cookies

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This streamlines the process and ensures you have everything ready.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can save time and effort when creaming the butter and sugar together.

Chill dough efficiently: Flatten the cookie dough balls slightly before chilling. This helps them chill faster and more evenly.

Batch baking: Use multiple baking sheets to bake more cookies at once, reducing overall baking time.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating your oven while you shape the dough balls to save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Jellybean Sugar Cookies Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though the texture may be slightly denser.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar for each tsp of baking powder to achieve similar leavening.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a similar salty flavor but may have a slightly different texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is dairy-free, though it may alter the cookie's texture slightly.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Offers a caramel-like flavor and is less processed, though it may darken the cookies.
large egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 3 tbsp water to create a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.
almond extract - Substitute with vanilla extract: Provides a similar sweet flavor, though it lacks the distinct almond taste.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Adds a rich, sweet flavor and can be used in equal amounts.
jellybeans - Substitute with dried fruit bits: Offers a chewy texture and natural sweetness, though the flavor profile will be different.

Presentation Ideas for Colorful Sugar Cookies

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar are of the finest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the sugar cookies.
Chill the dough properly: Chilling the cookie dough for at least 1 to 2 hours helps in maintaining the shape and achieving the perfect texture.
Bake to perfection: Monitor the cookies closely while baking to ensure they are lightly browned on the sides and soft in the center, achieving the ideal balance of crispiness and chewiness.
Press jellybeans strategically: Place the jellybeans into the warm cookies immediately after baking to allow them to slightly melt and adhere, creating a visually appealing and flavorful centerpiece.
Cool on a wire rack: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their structure and achieve the perfect texture.
Serve with elegance: Arrange the jellybean sugar cookies on a pristine white plate, spacing them evenly to highlight their individual beauty and the vibrant colors of the jellybeans.
Garnish with finesse: Add a light dusting of powdered sugar around the edges of the plate for a touch of elegance and a hint of extra sweetness.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve the cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea to enhance the overall tasting experience.
Highlight the flavors: Emphasize the subtle notes of almond extract and vanilla extract in the cookies by mentioning them in the menu description, enticing the diners with the promise of a sophisticated flavor profile.
Ensure perfect portion sizes: Serve the cookies in smaller, bite-sized portions to allow guests to savor each bite without overwhelming their palate, maintaining a refined and elegant presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Jellybean Sugar Cookies

Medium bowl: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt.
Large bowl: Essential for mixing the wet ingredients and combining them with the dry ingredients.
Hand mixer: Handy for creaming the butter and sugar together and mixing in the egg and extracts.
Stand mixer: An alternative to the hand mixer, especially useful if you have a paddle attachment.
Paddle attachment: Used with the stand mixer to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and butter.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like baking powder, salt, and extracts.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Baking sheet: Where you place the cookie dough balls for chilling and baking.
Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheets to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Silicone baking mats: An alternative to parchment paper for lining the baking sheets.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the cookie dough balls before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 350 degrees F for baking the cookies.
Wire rack: For cooling the cookies completely after baking.
Spoon: For scooping out the cookie dough.
Plate: To hold the cookie dough balls while they chill in the refrigerator.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Jellybean Sugar Cookies

Allow the sugar cookies to cool completely before storing.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
To keep the cookies soft, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies from becoming too hard.
For longer storage, you can freeze the jellybean sugar cookies:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer of cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
If you want to store the cookie dough for later use, follow these steps:
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Freeze the dough balls until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe.

Interesting Trivia About Jellybean Sugar Cookies

A fun fact about this jellybean sugar cookies recipe is that adding jellybeans to the cookies after baking ensures they maintain their vibrant colors and chewy texture, creating a delightful contrast with the soft cookie base.

Is Making Jellybean Sugar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

This jellybean sugar cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter are pantry staples, and the addition of jellybeans adds a fun twist without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, considering you might already have some ingredients on hand. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Jellybean Sugar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

The jellybean sugar cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The recipe is high in sugar, with 1 cup of granulated sugar and additional sugar from the jellybeans
It uses all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks the nutrients found in whole grain flours
The recipe calls for butter, which is high in saturated fat
Jellybeans are essentially pure sugar with artificial colors and flavors

However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing too much taste:

Reduce the amount of granulated sugar by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, depending on your preference
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or almond flour for added nutrients and fiber
Use coconut oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fat content
Opt for natural, fruit juice-sweetened jellybeans or replace them with dried fruit pieces like raisins or cranberries
Consider adding a handful of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the dough for healthy fats and protein

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to indulge in a classic jellybean sugar cookie occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Festive Cookie Recipe

This jellybean sugar cookie recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic treat. The combination of almond and vanilla extracts adds depth to the flavor, while the jellybeans provide a fun, colorful touch. Chilling the dough ensures the cookies maintain their shape and texture during baking. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. However, pressing the jellybeans into the warm cookies might cause them to melt slightly, so consider adding them just before serving for a cleaner presentation. Overall, it's a playful and tasty recipe perfect for festive occasions.

Enhance Your Jellybean Sugar Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Elevate your jellybean sugar cookies with a vibrant fruit salad. The refreshing burst of berries, kiwi, and mango will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair your jellybean sugar cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The smooth, cold texture of the ice cream will contrast beautifully with the chewy, sweet cookies, making each bite a heavenly experience.

Lemon Sorbet: Add a zesty twist to your dessert by serving lemon sorbet alongside your jellybean sugar cookies. The tangy, refreshing flavor of the sorbet will cut through the sweetness of the cookies, leaving your taste buds tingling with delight.

Chocolate Fondue: Create an indulgent treat by dipping your jellybean sugar cookies into a rich chocolate fondue. The warm, melted chocolate will add a luxurious touch to the cookies, making them even more irresistible.

Mint Tea: Serve your jellybean sugar cookies with a soothing cup of mint tea. The refreshing, herbal notes of the tea will cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of the cookies, providing a perfect end to your meal.

Similar Cookie Recipes to Try

Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic cookies are a crowd favorite, featuring a chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

Lemon Sugar Cookies: Bright and zesty, these lemon sugar cookies offer a refreshing twist on the traditional sugar cookie. The citrusy flavor pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

Peanut Butter Blossoms: A delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate, these cookies are topped with a Hershey's Kiss for a sweet and savory treat. Ideal for holiday baking or any time you crave a comforting dessert.

Snickerdoodle Cookies: These soft and chewy cookies are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking, giving them a warm and spicy flavor. Perfect for fall or any time you want a cozy treat.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Packed with oats and raisins, these cookies are both hearty and delicious. They offer a chewy texture and a hint of cinnamon, making them a wholesome snack or dessert.

Appetizer and Main Dish Ideas to Serve with Jellybean Sugar Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The breadcrumbs on top add a perfect crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts to a golden brown. Serve these warm, and watch them disappear quickly.

Caprese Skewers: Caprese Skewers offer a fresh and vibrant start to your dining experience. Picture cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves threaded onto skewers. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil for a burst of flavor. These are not only visually appealing but also a refreshing bite that sets the tone for the meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring it remains juicy and tender. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that’s sure to impress. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground beef or turkey, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Why trust this Jellybean Sugar Cookies Recipe:

This recipe combines the classic appeal of sugar cookies with the playful addition of jellybeans. The use of unsalted butter and pure vanilla extract ensures a rich, authentic flavor, while the almond extract adds a unique twist. Chilling the cookie dough enhances the texture, making each bite perfectly chewy. Trust this recipe for its balance of traditional techniques and creative flair, guaranteeing delightful results every time.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making Jellybean Sugar Cookies in the Baking and Desserts forum section. Join the discussion and let us know if you have any tips or variations to this delightful recipe!

FAQ:

How long do I need to chill the cookie dough?

You should chill the cookie dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, but you can leave them in there for up to 4 days if you want to prepare ahead.

Can I use a different type of extract instead of almond extract?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of almond extract or have an allergy, you can substitute it with more vanilla extract or try something like lemon or orange extract for a different flavor twist.

Do I have to use unsalted butter?

It's best to use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the cookies. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to about 1/4 teaspoon.

Can I use any type of jellybeans?

Yes, you can use any type of jellybeans you like. Feel free to mix and match different flavors and colors to make the cookies more fun and colorful.

How do I store the cookies after baking?

Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.