Pastel Iced Sugar Cookies for Spring Parties

Celebrate the arrival of spring with these delightful pastel iced sugar cookies. Perfect for seasonal gatherings, these cookies feature a soft, buttery base topped with sweet, vibrantly colored icing in soft pastel hues. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, Easter brunch, or baby shower, these cookies are sure to charm guests of all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually stunning: The soft, pastel icing makes these cookies a beautiful centerpiece for any spring event.

• Perfect texture: The cookies are tender and buttery with a slight crisp at the edges.

• Fun to decorate: A creative and enjoyable recipe for both kids and adults.

• Make-ahead friendly: Bake and decorate ahead of time to ease party prep.

• Ideal for gifting: These cookies package well and make thoughtful spring-themed treats.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Sugar Cookies:

• Unsalted butter

• Granulated sugar

• Large eggs

• Pure vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

For the Icing:

• Confectioners’ sugar

• Pasteurized egg whites or meringue powder

• Fresh lemon juice

• Gel food coloring in pastel shades

Directions

1. Make the cookie dough: Cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.

2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

3. Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

4. Roll and cut the cookies: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes using spring-themed cookie cutters.

5. Bake: Transfer cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are just turning golden. Allow to cool on the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Prepare the icing: Mix confectioners’ sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder mixed with water), and lemon juice until smooth. Divide into bowls and color with pastel gel food coloring.

7. Decorate: Once cookies are completely cool, pipe or spread icing on top. Let the icing dry fully before storing or serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of the cookie cutters

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Bake Time: 8–10 minutes per batch

• Decorating Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Flavor boost: Add almond extract or citrus zest to the dough for an extra flavor layer.

• Color play: Use different shades for seasonal holidays like soft green for St. Patrick’s Day or light blue for baby showers.

• Alternative icing: Swap royal icing for a simple powdered sugar glaze if preferred.

• Texture add-ins: Add finely chopped nuts or crushed freeze-dried fruit to the dough for added interest.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Freezing: Undecorated cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.

• Reheating: These cookies are best served at room temperature and do not require reheating.

FAQs

How long do iced sugar cookies last?

Properly stored in an airtight container, they last up to a week at room temperature.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before decorating.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 1 month.

What type of food coloring works best?

Gel food coloring gives vibrant color without thinning the icing.

Can I use royal icing without egg whites?

Yes, you can use meringue powder as a substitute for egg whites.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should be set but soft.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading and helps maintain shape.

Can I add decorations to the icing?

Yes, add sprinkles or edible decorations before the icing sets.

How do I get a smooth icing surface?

Use a piping bag for outline and flooding, and a toothpick to even out the surface.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Pastel iced sugar cookies are a delightful way to welcome spring and bring a festive touch to any celebration. With their soft, buttery base and eye-catching pastel icing, these cookies are as enjoyable to decorate as they are to eat. Make a batch ahead of your next event and impress your guests with a sweet, seasonal treat.