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Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies Recipe

4.7 from 79 reviews

These Jelly Bean Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened sugar cookies with a delightful twist of colorful jelly beans pressed into the center. Perfect for festive occasions or a fun treat, they combine classic cookie flavors with a playful, chewy surprise.

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. Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until fully combined. Set the dry mixture aside for now.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Add Egg and Extracts: Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, then beat on high speed for another minute or until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  5. Form Cookie Dough Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, rolling each into a ball. Place them on a large plate or a lined baking sheet.
  6. Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the cookie dough balls for at least 1 to 2 hours, up to 4 days, to firm up the dough for easier baking.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
  8. Arrange and Bake: Place the chilled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 3 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges are very lightly browned and the centers are still soft.
  9. Add Jelly Beans: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 3 minutes. Quickly press a couple of jelly beans into the center of each cookie while still warm to ensure they stick well.
  10. Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
  11. Storage: Keep the cookies fresh by storing them covered at room temperature for up to one week.

Notes

  • For best results, chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and achieve a thicker cookie.
  • Using room temperature butter and egg allows for better mixing and texture.
  • You can substitute jelly beans with other candy pieces such as chocolate chips or M&Ms for variety.
  • Ensure the jelly beans are pressed in while the cookies are still warm for optimal sticking.
  • If preferred, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.

Keywords: Jelly Bean Cookies, Sugar Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Festive Treats, Soft Cookies, Butter Cookies