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Easter Cookies Recipe

Easter Cookies Recipe
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A simple and festive Easter Cookies Recipe that perfectly celebrates spring with sweet, bright flavors and a delightful balance of soft and crisp textures. Easy to make for bakers of all levels, these cookies are customizable with colorful decorations and perfect for family gatherings or seasonal celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for vegan/dairy-free)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs (or flaxseed eggs for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (or orange zest as variation)

Optional Decorations

  • Icing (pastel or royal icing)
  • Pastel sprinkles or edible pearls
  • Edible glitter
  • Natural food colorings like beetroot or spinach powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Cream softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base. Then, beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and freshly grated lemon zest to infuse the dough with flavor.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning elements throughout the dough.
  3. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing, which helps keep the cookies tender. The dough should come together but not be too sticky.
  4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies keep their shape during baking.
  5. Shape and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough onto a floured surface and cut into fun Easter shapes using cookie cutters. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
  6. Decorate and Enjoy: Once cooled, decorate your cookies with icing, sprinkles, or edible pearls to add that festive flair before serving or gifting.

Notes

  • Chill properly to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shapes.
  • Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and consistent dough.
  • Do not overbake; remove cookies when edges turn golden to keep the center soft and chewy.
  • Flour cookie cutters lightly to avoid sticky dough and achieve clean cuts.
  • Decorate only after cookies are completely cooled to prevent icing from melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Easter cookies, spring cookies, festive cookies, vanilla cookies, citrus cookies, gluten-free cookies, holiday baking

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/easter-cookies-recipe/