Soft and pink-frosted Crumbl Pink Donut Cookies with a delightful donut-inspired twist. Perfect for any sweet tooth!
Crumbl Pink Donut Cookies are the perfect sweet treat for anyone who loves the soft, buttery texture of cookies combined with the fun and colorful look of a classic frosted donut. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also deliciously soft and flavorful. The pink frosting adds a delightful touch, making these cookies an ideal choice for parties, special occasions, or just a sweet afternoon snack.
INGREDIENTS
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups, for structure
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, helps the cookies rise
- Salt: ¼ tsp, balances the sweetness
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened, for a rich texture
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup, for sweetness
- Packed brown sugar: ¼ cup, adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor
- Large egg: 1, binds the dough
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, enhances the flavor
- Milk: ¼ cup, adds moisture
- Powdered sugar (for frosting): 1 cup, for a smooth, sweet frosting
- Unsalted butter (for frosting): 2 tbsp, softened, adds creaminess to the frosting
- Milk (for frosting): 2 tbsp, for a smooth consistency
- Vanilla extract (for frosting): ¼ tsp, for flavor
- Pink food coloring (optional): adds a fun, colorful touch
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy.
- Step 4:
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Step 5:
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, until combined.
- Step 6:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Step 8:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 9 (Frosting):
- In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add pink food coloring if desired and mix until well combined.
- Step 10:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread frosting on top.
Serving and Storage Tips
- These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To keep the frosting soft, avoid refrigerating the cookies, as the cold air can harden the frosting.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a more vibrant pink frosting, add a few extra drops of food coloring until you achieve the desired shade.
- You can also add sprinkles on top of the frosting for an extra fun and colorful touch.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- For a richer frosting, you can substitute half of the milk in the frosting with heavy cream.
How to Make Perfect Pink Frosted Cookies
The key to soft, tender cookies is to avoid overmixing the dough. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined for the best texture. Also, be sure to let the cookies cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Creative Variations for Pink Donut Cookies
Try using different food coloring to match holiday themes, or add a drizzle of chocolate over the pink frosting for a more decadent treat. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
FAQs
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and frost before serving.
What if I don’t have pink food coloring?
You can use any food coloring you like, or leave the frosting white for a simple, elegant look.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
To make the frosting less sweet, add a pinch of salt or a bit more butter for balance.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture may vary slightly, but they will still be delicious.
Summary
Crumbl Pink Donut Cookies are a delightful twist on classic donuts, combining the soft, buttery texture of a cookie with the sweet, colorful frosting of a donut. These cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, offering a fun and whimsical treat that everyone will love. With their light, fluffy texture and donut-inspired frosting, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and bring a pop of color to your dessert table. Whether you're making them for a birthday party, a fun baking project, or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these pink donut cookies are a guaranteed hit!