Spring is finally arriving and St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner. It is the perfect time to bring some vibrant color into your kitchen. These adorable St. Patrick’s Day cookies are bright, cheerful, and so much fun to make.
You do not need to be an expert baker to master these. They deliver a soft, buttery bite that everyone in the family will crave. Let’s get your oven ready for some holiday magic today.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for busy families. It uses simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand. The festive green hue makes these cookies stand out on any dessert table.
These are especially great for St. Patrick’s Day cookies because they are so playful. Kids love helping to press the little red hearts into the warm dough. It is a quick way to create lasting holiday memories together.
Simple Method
Making these cookies is incredibly straightforward and stress-free. You will use a standard creaming method that ensures a tender crumb every time. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this easily.
There is no need to chill the dough for hours. You can go from mixing to munching in just 30 minutes. It is the perfect project for a rainy spring afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These treats come together with basic ingredients and a pop of color.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon neon green gel food coloring
- 24 small red heart-shaped candy sprinkles
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add green gel food coloring to the wet mixture and mix until the color is uniform.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are just set but not browned.
- Remove from oven and immediately press one red heart sprinkle into the top-right section of each warm cookie.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These cookies look stunning served on a simple white platter. Pair them with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate snack. They are also a fantastic addition to any school lunchbox.
If you are hosting a party, arrange them with other green treats. They bring a whimsical touch to your St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Set them out and watch them disappear in minutes.
Keep It Fresh
Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to five days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for later enjoyment.
If you want to prep ahead, roll the dough into balls first. Freeze the unbaked dough balls in a freezer bag. Just add a couple of minutes to the baking time when ready.
Tips for Best Results
- Use gel food coloring for the most vibrant green results.
- Do not skip softening your butter to room temperature first.
- Press the heart sprinkles in immediately after baking while warm.
- Watch the oven closely to avoid browning the edges.
- Use a small cookie scoop for perfectly even 1-inch balls.
- Add a pinch of salt if using salted butter.
- Double the batch for a larger holiday gathering or potluck.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap vanilla extract for peppermint extract for a minty twist.
- Mix in white chocolate chips for extra creamy sweetness.
- Use a gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend for sensitive tummies.
- Roll the dough balls in green sanding sugar before baking.
Common Questions
Can I use liquid food coloring instead?
Yes, you can use liquid coloring if needed. However, the green may not be as bright or neon. Gel coloring provides a much more concentrated and festive look.
How do I know when they are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are just set. They should still look slightly soft in the center. They will firm up perfectly as they cool on the sheet.
Will the hearts melt in the oven?
That is why we add them after baking is finished. Pressing them into the warm cookie ensures they stick without melting. This keeps the heart shape sharp and cute.
I hope these festive cookies bring a little extra luck to your home this spring. They are such a joy to bake and share with the people you love. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
— Lidia
Festive St Patrick’s Day Grinch Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all -purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large eg g
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon neon green gel food coloring
- 24 small red heart-shaped candy sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Add green gel food coloring to the wet mixture and mix until the color is uniform.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are just set but not browned.
- Remove from oven and immediately press one red heart sprinkle into the top-right section of each warm cookie.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
