Sugar Cookie Cups are soft, buttery cookie cups baked in a muffin pan and filled with creamy pink frosting. They are easy to make, adorable to serve, and perfect for Valentine’s Day, parties, or anytime you want a cute dessert that everyone loves. These cookie cups stay tender, hold their shape well, and can be customized in many fun ways.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
- Pink food coloring
- Valentine sprinkles (optional)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Dough
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin pan very well. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Mix just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix or the cookie cups will be dense.
Step 3: Shape the Cookie Cups
Roll dough into small balls and place one ball into each muffin cavity. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 4: Form the Cups
Remove the pan from the oven and immediately press the center of each cookie using the back of a spoon or a small glass to create a cup shape. Let cookies cool completely in the pan.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
Beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, milk, and pink food coloring. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Fill and Decorate
Pipe or spoon frosting into each cooled cookie cup. Top with sprinkles if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Press the cookie centers while they are still hot to avoid cracking
- Do not overbake or the cookie cups will become dry
- Let cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
- Grease the muffin pan very well so cookies release easily
- If cookies puff back up, gently re-press while still warm
Variations
- Fill the cookie cups with chocolate ganache instead of frosting for a richer dessert
- Use strawberry or raspberry frosting for extra flavor
- Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough before baking
- Fill cups with lemon curd for a fresh, tangy twist
- Use different food coloring for holidays like Easter, Christmas, or birthdays
Tips
- Use a small measuring spoon or spice jar to press uniform cup shapes
- Chill frosting slightly if it feels too soft for piping
- For clean edges, remove cookie cups gently using a butter knife
- Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours
- Store unfrosted cups separately if making in advance
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on Valentine dessert platters or cookie trays
- Package in boxes or bags for gifting
- Add fresh strawberries or candy hearts on top
- Serve with milk, coffee, or hot chocolate
- Perfect for parties, bake sales, or classroom treats
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
FAQs
Can I make sugar cookie cups ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cookie cups a day ahead and frost before serving.
Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, but homemade frosting gives the best texture and flavor.
Why did my cookie cups crack?
They were likely pressed too late or baked too long.
Can I freeze sugar cookie cups?
Yes, freeze unfrosted cookie cups for up to 2 months.
Can I use a regular muffin pan?
Yes, but baking time will be slightly longer.
Conclusion
Sugar Cookie Cups are a fun and festive twist on classic sugar cookies. Soft, sweet, and filled with creamy frosting, they are easy to customize and perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a cute and delicious dessert.