Twinkling Treats
There’s something magical about gathering around the table with loved ones during the holidays, and these Twinkling Treats—soft, buttery cookies dipped in icing and sprinkled with a little sparkle—capture that nostalgic, cozy feeling perfectly. They’re simple to make, affordable, and versatile enough for any holiday gathering, making them the kind of dessert that turns into a cherished family tradition.
Ingredients
- For the Cookie Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Icing:
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For Decoration:
- Sprinkles or edible glitter
- Fresh fruit for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to help the treats bake evenly and prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined. The dough should be moist and slightly tacky.
- Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, combine the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops in the icing and sprinkle with colored sprinkles or edible glitter while the icing is still wet.
- Allow the icing to set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cook’s Notes
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before scooping. For a festive twist, try adding orange or lemon zest to the dough for extra brightness of flavor.
Ingredient Swaps
Stir in 1-2 cups of chocolate chips for a richer treat, or add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. For a vegan version, swap the butter for coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water in place of the eggs.
Serving Suggestions
These treats shine brightly at any gathering, whether it’s a holiday party, family get-together, or a cozy night in—serve them on a platter alongside coffee or hot cocoa so everyone can admire the sparkle before digging in.
Storage & Reheating
Store Twinkling Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness (let them come back to room temperature before serving). You can also freeze the baked cookies without icing, then thaw, ice, and decorate whenever you’re ready to serve.
Common Questions
What are Twinkling Treats?
They’re a festive holiday dessert made from a soft cookie base topped with a smooth icing and sprinkles or edible glitter for a sparkling finish.
Can I prepare Twinkling Treats ahead of time?
Yes—bake the cookie base up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container, then ice and decorate them the day you plan to serve for the best appearance.
Can I freeze Twinkling Treats?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked cookies before icing them, then thaw and add the icing and sprinkles whenever you’re ready to enjoy them.
