For a refreshing twist on a classic treat, try these watermelon sugar cookies. This unique blend of flavors combines the sweetness of sugar cookies with a hint of watermelon, bringing a burst of summer flavor to your cookie jar. The colorful icing and mini chocolate chip 'seeds' make these cookies look just like miniature slices of watermelon, perfect for a summer party or a fun baking project with kids.
The ingredient that might not be commonly found in your pantry is watermelon flavor. This can be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket, usually near the vanilla extract. It is also available online. Mini chocolate chips, which are smaller than regular chocolate chips, are used as 'seeds' to make the cookies look more like watermelon slices. They can also be found in the baking aisle of your supermarket or online.
Ingredients for Watermelon Sugar Cookies
All-purpose flour: This is the base for the cookie, providing structure and texture.
Baking powder: This helps the cookie rise and spread in the oven.
Salt: Salt enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Unsalted butter: It adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
Granulated sugar: It sweetens the cookies and helps them brown in the oven.
Egg: It binds the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: It adds flavor to the cookies.
Watermelon flavor: It provides the distinctive watermelon taste.
Confectioners’ sugar: Used in the icing for sweetness and smooth texture.
Meringue powder: It stabilizes the icing and makes it harden when dry.
Food coloring: It colors the icing to look like a watermelon.
Mini chocolate chips: They are used as ‘seeds’ to resemble watermelon.
One reader, Angelo Park says:
These watermelon sugar cookies are a delightful treat! The flavor is unique and refreshing, and the cookies are so cute with their watermelon design. The recipe was easy to follow, and the cookies turned out delicious. I love how the mini chocolate chips added a fun touch. Perfect for summer gatherings!
Techniques Required for Making Watermelon Sugar Cookies
How to prepare the cookie dough: Mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and chilling the dough before rolling and cutting.
How to make royal icing: Combining confectioners’ sugar, meringue powder, and water, then dividing and coloring the icing for decorating the cookies.
How to roll and cut the cookie dough: Rolling the chilled dough to a ¼-inch thickness, cutting it into circles, and then slicing each circle in half to form the watermelon slices.
How to decorate the cookies: Piping green, white, and pink icing onto the cookies to create the watermelon rind, flesh, and seeds, and allowing the icing to set before serving.
How To Make Watermelon Sugar Cookies
These watermelon sugar cookies are easier to make than they look. Buttery baked cookies are decorated with royal icing and chocolate chips for fun treats.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- ½tspbaking powder
- ¼tspsalt
- ¾cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- 1large egg,at room temperature
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- ¼tspwatermelon flavor,optional added flavor
For Royal Icing:
- 4cupsconfectioners’ sugar
- 3tbspmeringue powder
- 10tbspwater,room temperature
- food coloring,green and pink
- ⅓cupmini chocolate chips
Instructions
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Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
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In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until smooth. Add the granulated sugar and beat on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until creamed.
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Add the egg, vanilla, and watermelon 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.
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Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low until combined. If the dough seems too soft, add 1 tablespoon more flour until it is a better consistency for rolling.
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Divide the dough into 2 equal parts. Roll each portion out onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured silicone baking mat to about ¼-inch thickness. The rolled-out dough can be any shape, as long as it is evenly ¼-inch thick.
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Stack the pieces, with parchment paper between the 2, onto a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours and up to 2 days. If chilling for more than a couple hours, cover the top dough piece with a single piece of parchment paper.
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Once chilled, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Remove 1 of the dough pieces from the refrigerator.
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Using a 3-inch circle cookie cutter, cut into circles. Re-roll the remaining dough and continue cutting until all is used. Repeat with 2nd dough piece. Cut each circle in half to form slices.
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Arrange cookies on a baking sheet 2-inches apart. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, until lightly browned around the edges. Make sure you rotate the baking sheet halfway through bake time.
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Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Royal Icing:
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In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat all of the icing ingredients together on high speed for 5 minutes.
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Separate icing into 3 bowls, making sure 1 bowl has about ⅔ of the icing. This is for the pink. The others will have ⅓ of the icing each.
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Stir pink coloring into the larger amount of icing and green into one of the other bowls. Keep the last bowl of icing white.
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Add green icing to a piping bag fitted with round icing tip #5. Line green icing around the round bottom of each cookie. Place baking sheet in the refrigerator to set the icing for 15 minutes.
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Add white icing to a piping bag fitted with the same round icing tip. Line white icing right above green icing. Place baking sheet in the refrigerator to set the icing for 15 minutes.
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Add pink icing to a piping bag fitted with the same round icing tip. Pipe pink icing onto the rest of the watermelon slice. Top with mini chocolate chips as “seeds.” Icing will completely set in 2 to 3 hours at room temperature.
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Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
When lifting the whisk up off the icing, the icing should drizzle down and smooth out within 10 to 12 seconds. If it’s too thick, add a little more water. If it’s too thin, add a little more sifted confectioners’ sugar.
Nutrition
- Calories: 104.91kcal
- Fat: 3.26g
- Saturated Fat: 2.01g
- Trans Fat: 0.11g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.76g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.15g
- Carbohydrates: 18.32g
- Fiber: 0.19g
- Sugar: 13.75g
- Protein: 0.82g
- Cholesterol: 11.26mg
- Sodium: 18.91mg
- Calcium: 7.58mg
- Potassium: 8.74mg
- Iron: 0.31mg
- Vitamin A: 24.89µg
- Vitamin C: 0.01mg
Helpful Technique for Creating Watermelon Sugar Cookies
When working with royal icing, it's crucial to get the right consistency. If it's too thick, it will be difficult to pipe and won't spread evenly. If it's too thin, it won't hold its shape. To test the consistency, lift a spoonful of icing and let it drizzle back into the bowl. It should smoothly ribbon off the spoon and any peaks in the bowl should disappear in about 10 seconds. If it's too thick, add more water, a few drops at a time. If it's too thin, add more confectioners' sugar.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Sugar Cookies
Prep ahead: Make the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This will save time on the day you want to bake the cookies.
Chill dough quickly: To speed up the chilling process, roll the dough into a thinner layer before refrigerating. This will help it chill faster and be ready for cutting and baking sooner.
Use pre-made icing: If you're short on time, consider using store-bought royal icing instead of making it from scratch. This can save you time and effort in the decorating process.
Batch baking: Bake multiple trays of cookies at once to maximize oven use and save time overall. Just make sure to rotate the trays halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
Efficient decorating: Set up a decorating station with all the tools and icing colors you need before you start decorating. This will streamline the process and make it more efficient.
Substitute Ingredients For Watermelon Sugar Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitute is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies, providing a similar texture and structure to the cookies.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, imparting a subtle coconut flavor to the cookies.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar offers a natural, caramel-like sweetness and can be used as a lower glycemic index alternative to granulated sugar.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water): This vegan-friendly substitute provides binding properties similar to eggs in baking recipes.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract adds a delightful nutty flavor, complementing the watermelon essence in the cookies.
watermelon flavor - Substitute with strawberry flavor: Strawberry flavoring can provide a similar fruity essence, enhancing the cookies with a delightful berry taste.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: This low-calorie sweetener can be used as a sugar-free alternative for the royal icing, suitable for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle.
meringue powder - Substitute with aquafaba (chickpea brine): Aquafaba can be whipped into a meringue-like consistency, serving as a vegan-friendly alternative in the royal icing.
mini chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs offer a rich, chocolatey flavor and crunchy texture, providing a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate chips.
Creative Ways to Present Watermelon Sugar Cookies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the watermelon sugar cookies, consider using a sleek and modern plate or platter to showcase the vibrant colors and intricate details of the cookies.
Incorporate natural elements: Introduce elements of nature into the presentation by using fresh watermelon slices, mint leaves, or edible flowers as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Create visual contrast: Pair the watermelon sugar cookies with a contrasting background, such as a dark slate or marble serving board, to make the colors of the cookies stand out and create a visually striking presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing for ample negative space around the cookies, creating a clean and sophisticated presentation that draws attention to the intricate details of the dessert.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Consider adding artistic drizzles of watermelon-flavored glaze or coulis on the plate to create an elegant and visually appealing presentation that showcases the flavors of the cookies.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the watermelon sugar cookies in a symmetrical pattern on the plate, creating a visually pleasing and balanced presentation that highlights the precision and artistry of the dessert.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, delicately place edible gold leaf accents around the plate to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation of the watermelon sugar cookies.
Personalize with monogrammed plates: Consider serving the watermelon sugar cookies on monogrammed or custom-designed plates to add a personalized and exclusive touch to the presentation, elevating the dining experience for the guests.
Essential Tools for Making Sugar Cookies
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
- Rolling pin: A cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking.
- Cookie cutter: A tool used to cut out shapes from rolled cookie dough.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
- Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
- Silicone baking mat: A non-stick baking surface made of silicone that can be used instead of parchment paper or greasing a baking sheet.
- Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe icing, frosting, or batter onto baked goods.
- Round icing tip: A small, round metal tip used for piping icing and creating decorative designs on cakes and cookies.
- Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around them.
Storing and Freezing Watermelon Sugar Cookies
Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for watermelon sugar cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
- To thaw, remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- If you want to store decorated cookies, wait until the icing has completely hardened before placing them in an airtight container. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent damage to the decorations.
- Avoid storing the cookies in a humid environment, as this can cause the icing to melt and the cookies to become soft and sticky.
- If the cookies become slightly stale, you can crisp them up by placing them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Interesting Fact About Watermelon Sugar Cookies
Watermelon is not only delicious but also a hydrating fruit, as it contains about 92% water. This makes it a great choice for staying hydrated, especially during hot summer days.
Is Making Sugar Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this watermelon sugar cookies recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. While all-purpose flour, butter, and sugar are common kitchen staples, the addition of watermelon flavor and mini chocolate chips may increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and potential for leftovers, this recipe could be moderately cost-effective for a household. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people may range from $15 to $20, depending on the quality and brand of ingredients used. Overall Verdict: 7/10
Are Watermelon Sugar Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The watermelon sugar cookies recipe, while delightful and creative, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients, such as all-purpose flour, butter, and sugar, are high in calories, saturated fat, and carbohydrates. The royal icing, made with confectioners' sugar and meringue powder, adds even more sugar to the recipe. Consuming excessive amounts of these ingredients can lead to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising its fun and festive nature:
- Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the cookie dough and the royal icing, or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use a portion of unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado to replace some of the butter, reducing the saturated fat content
- Incorporate more natural food coloring options, such as beet juice for pink and spinach juice for green, to avoid artificial food dyes
- Experiment with using dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a healthier alternative that is lower in sugar and higher in antioxidants
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the watermelon sugar cookies while still enjoying the delightful flavors and aesthetics of this summer-inspired treat.
Editor's Opinion on This Watermelon Sugar Cookie Recipe
As a culinary expert, I find this watermelon sugar cookies recipe to be a delightful and innovative twist on traditional sugar cookies. The incorporation of watermelon flavor and the decorative design make these cookies a fun and refreshing treat for any occasion. The detailed instructions and use of royal icing demonstrate a thoughtful approach to presentation and flavor balance. Overall, this recipe showcases creativity and attention to detail, making it a delightful addition to any dessert spread.
Enhance Your Watermelon Sugar Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Watermelon Sugar Cookies
Why trust this Watermelon Sugar Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, incorporating the refreshing flavor of watermelon and the sweetness of vanilla extract. The use of unsalted butter ensures a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of mini chocolate chips adds a delightful crunch. The royal icing, made with confectioners' sugar and meringue powder, provides a smooth and glossy finish. With meticulous attention to detail, the recipe guarantees a visually stunning and delicious treat. Trust in the combination of classic ingredients and innovative flavors to elevate your cookie-baking experience.
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