Candy Corn Sugar Cookies are a festive Halloween treat that combines the classic sugar cookie flavor with a fun, tri-colored dough inspired by candy corn. These cookies are easy to make, with a soft and chewy texture that's sure to be a hit at parties or among trick-or-treaters. Topped with a drizzle of sweet icing, they are as delicious as they are colorful, making them the perfect addition to any spooky celebration.
Candy Corn Sugar Cookies are a festive and fun treat that brings the spirit of Halloween to life. With a tri-colored dough inspired by the iconic candy corn, these cookies are a hit with both kids and adults. The soft, chewy texture of the sugar cookie base is complemented by a sweet icing drizzle, making these cookies a must-have for any Halloween party or celebration. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they add a splash of color and sweetness to the spooky season.
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened for creaminess
- Egg: 1 large, for binding
- All-purpose flour: 2 ¾ cups, for structure
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, for leavening
- Baking soda: ½ tsp, for leavening
- Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups, for sweetness
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp, for flavor
- Milk: 3 tbsp, for moisture
- Orange food coloring: for the orange dough
- Yellow food coloring: for the yellow dough
- Powdered sugar: for icing, to add sweetness
- Water: for icing, to reach desired consistency
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a separate bowl, blend softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined into a dough.
- Step 5:
- Divide the dough into three equal parts. Leave one plain, add orange food coloring to the second, and yellow to the third.
- Step 6:
- Shape small spheres from each colored dough and gently merge them to create a tri-color candy corn look.
- Step 7:
- Place the tri-color balls on prepared baking sheets, 2 inches apart, and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Step 8:
- Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of water to create a thick icing, then drizzle over the cooled cookies for extra sweetness.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Helpful Notes
- To achieve vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid for the dough.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes before shaping for easier handling.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Tip: Add a touch of almond extract along with vanilla for a more complex flavor.
- Chef Tip: For a crisper cookie, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
The Fun of Candy Corn Sugar Cookies
These cookies are the perfect combination of classic sugar cookie flavor and festive Halloween colors, making them a delightful treat for any spooky celebration.
FAQs
Can I use different colors for the dough?
Yes, you can customize the colors to match other holiday themes or events.
How can I make the cookies softer?
Add an extra tablespoon of butter to the dough for a softer texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How can I store the cookies for longer?
Freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Summary
Candy Corn Sugar Cookies capture the festive spirit of Halloween with their vibrant tri-colored dough, reminiscent of candy corn. The cookies have a soft, chewy texture and are topped with a sweet icing drizzle. They are perfect for Halloween parties, trick-or-treating, or any fall celebration, offering a fun and playful twist on classic sugar cookies. With a simple recipe and a prep time of just 20 minutes, these cookies are an easy and enjoyable baking project for both kids and adults alike.