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Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies Recipe

4.1 from 72 reviews

Delightfully soft and chewy Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies that combine classic sugar cookie flavors with the colorful surprise of jelly beans baked right in. These cookies are easy to make, featuring a simple dough chilled for better texture, then baked until lightly golden and topped with vibrant jelly beans for a fun and festive treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Topping

  • 1 bag jelly beans

Instructions

  1. Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure they are evenly mixed and set the bowl aside.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg and extracts: Add the large egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat on high speed for about 1 minute until fully combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl if needed and beat again to fully incorporate all ingredients.
  4. Mix in dry ingredients: On low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  5. Form dough balls: Scoop approximately 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie and roll each into a ball. Arrange the balls on a large plate or lined baking sheet.
  6. Chill the dough: Cover the dough balls and refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, or up to 4 days to firm up and develop flavor.
  7. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  8. Arrange dough for baking: Place the chilled dough balls 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
  9. Bake the cookies: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers appear soft. The cookies should not be fully firm at this point to keep them chewy.
  10. Add jelly beans: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for exactly 3 minutes. Press a couple of jelly beans into the center of each cookie while warm so they adhere properly.
  11. Cool completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool fully before serving or storing.
  12. Storage: Store cooled cookies covered at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and softness.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial for texture and flavor development as well as for easier handling.
  • Press jelly beans into the cookies while they are warm to ensure they stick well without melting.
  • Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • You can substitute almond extract with additional vanilla extract if preferred.
  • Cookies might look soft and underbaked in the center; this keeps them chewy after cooling.

Keywords: jelly bean cookies, sugar cookies, soft cookies, colorful cookies, holiday cookies, festive treats, easy cookie recipe