Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting are a delightful twist on the classic shortbread! Just imagining the colorful sprinkles peeking out from these soft, buttery cookies brings a smile to my face. I remember making these cookies for family gatherings, and they quickly became the star of the dessert table. Kids and adults alike can’t resist their sweet, buttery flavor and that beautiful pop of color! With each bite, you’re not just enjoying a cookie, but a little moment of happiness. Plus, they’re super simple to make! Let’s dive into why you should whip up a batch of these delicious treats.
Why make this recipe?
First and foremost, Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies taste amazing! The buttery richness of shortbread pairs beautifully with the sweetness of frosting while the sprinkles add a fun crunch.
These cookies are quick to make, meaning you won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. In about an hour, you can have a batch ready to impress your family and friends. They’re perfect for birthday parties, holiday get-togethers, or just when you need a little dessert to brighten your day.
This recipe is budget-friendly too! The ingredients are common and won’t break the bank. Plus, kids adore the colorful sprinkles, making these cookies a hit with the little ones. Even if you’re a beginner baker, you will find this recipe easy to follow. Trust me, you’ll feel like a pro when you serve these cookies!
How to make Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting
Making Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies is a fun and straightforward experience. The total time required is about 1 hour, including baking and assembling the cookies. You won’t need any special tools—just basic kitchen equipment like mixing bowls, a baking sheet, and a rolling pin.
The main steps involve preparing the cookie dough, rolling it out, cutting it into shapes, and then baking. Once the cookies cool, you’ll make a delightful vanilla buttercream to fill them. Get ready for a fun baking adventure!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these colorful delights:
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 – 3 cups Powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp Heavy cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- 1 3/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 tsp Cream of Tartar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1 Egg (room temperature)
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tsp Almond Extract
- 1/2 cup Funfetti sprinkles
Step-by-step directions
Now, let’s break down the process into easy-to-follow steps.
For the Vanilla Buttercream:
Cream the butter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Beat them together until the mixture becomes fluffy.
Add sugar and cream: Gradually add 2 1/2 to 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. If you like, this is the time to incorporate food coloring for a fun twist.
Mix until smooth: Continue to blend everything until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Set it aside for now.
For the Shortbread Cookies:
Cream the butters and sugars: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In another large mixing bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add eggs and extracts: Add 1 egg (make sure it’s at room temperature), 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until fully integrated.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Incorporate dry mix: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until combined. Fold in 1/2 cup of Funfetti sprinkles until evenly distributed.
Roll out dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thick. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
Bake: Arrange the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
Cool and assemble: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Once they are cool, spread a generous amount of buttercream on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie to create a sandwich.
How to serve Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting?
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience even more! Consider serving them with a tall glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun dessert combo. You can also add fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries on the side for a refreshing touch. A sprinkle of extra Funfetti on top before serving can add a nice finishing flair too!
How to store Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for about 5-7 days. If you plan to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Place the assembled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for perfect Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies
Use room temperature ingredients: Start with butter and egg that are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, creamy batter.
Avoid overmixing: When mixing the flour into the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Don’t skip cooling: Ensure your cookies cool completely before adding frosting. This prevents melting and makes it easier to spread.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out the almond extract for another flavor like coconut or lemon for a unique twist.
Adjust sprinkle quantity: Add more sprinkles if you want a more colorful cookie. Just be careful not to overdo it—too many can affect the texture.
Variations
Getting creative in the kitchen is part of the fun! Here are a few variations you can try:
Chocolate Funfetti: Replace 1/4 cup of the flour with cocoa powder for a delicious chocolate base. Add chocolate chips for extra indulgence!
Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for better texture.
Different fillings: Instead of vanilla buttercream, use cream cheese frosting or a flavored ganache for a different taste experience.
FAQs about Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies
Can I substitute unsalted butter with margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it might affect the flavor and texture slightly. Unsalted butter provides a richer taste and allows you to control the salt level better.
Why did my cookies spread out while baking?
Cookies may spread if the dough is too warm or if you didn’t add enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for about 30 minutes if you notice it’s too soft.
Will this work if I reduce the sugar?
Reducing the sugar will change the texture and sweetness of your cookies. They may turn out less tender and will lack some sweetness. I recommend sticking to the original measurements for the best results.
Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting bring joy and color to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try crafting these delicious cookies and sharing them with your family and friends. Happy baking!
Print
Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful shortbread cookies filled with sweet vanilla buttercream and colorful funfetti sprinkles.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 – 3 cups Powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp Heavy cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- 1 3/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/4 tsp Baking Soda
- 1/2 tsp Cream of Tartar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup Sugar
- 1 Egg (room temperature)
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tsp Almond Extract
- 1/2 cup Funfetti sprinkles
Instructions
- Cream the butter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy.
- Add sugar and cream: Gradually add 2 1/2 to 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. Incorporate food coloring if desired.
- Mix until smooth: Continue blending until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In another bowl, beat together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and extracts: Mix in 1 egg, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract until fully integrated.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Incorporate dry mix: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until combined. Fold in 1/2 cup of Funfetti sprinkles.
- Roll out dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll to about 1/4-inch thick. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
- Bake: Arrange the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool and assemble: Allow cookies to cool completely. Spread buttercream on one cookie and top with another to create a sandwich.
Notes
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5-7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: funfetti, cookies, shortbread, dessert, frosting, birthday