These Rainbow Sherbet Cookies are the ultimate fun treat for kids and adults alike! The cookie dough is divided into colorful portions to resemble rainbow sherbet flavors, making each bite as exciting as it is delicious. The cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a simple icing drizzle for a sweet finish. You can make them in various colors, and add optional lime or raspberry extract to enhance the flavor. Perfect for parties, celebrations, or just a sweet, cheerful snack at home.
Rainbow Sherbet Cookies are the perfect blend of color and flavor, offering a cheerful twist on traditional sugar cookies. With their vibrant hues and soft, chewy texture, these cookies bring a sense of fun and whimsy to any dessert table. Whether it’s for a party, birthday celebration, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress!
INGREDIENTS
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (225g), softened, to create a rich, creamy base.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g), for sweetness.
- Powdered sugar: 1/2 cup (100g), to add a soft texture to the dough.
- Large eggs: 2, for structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for a hint of flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (315g), for structure.
- Baking powder: 1 tsp, to help the cookies rise.
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp, for a light, airy texture.
- Salt: 1/4 tsp, to balance the sweetness.
- Food coloring: Pink, orange, green, or your favorite sherbet colors.
- Lime extract: 1/2 tsp (optional), for a citrusy kick.
- Raspberry or strawberry extract: 1/2 tsp (optional), for fruity flavor.
- Powdered sugar (for icing): 1 cup (120g), to make a simple drizzle.
- Milk (for icing): 2-3 tbsp, to create the desired icing consistency.
- Vanilla extract (for icing): 1/2 tsp, to flavor the icing.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Step 3:
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract (and lime/raspberry extracts, if using).
- Step 4:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 5:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Step 6:
- Divide the dough into 3 or 4 portions, depending on desired colors.
- Step 7:
- Add food coloring to each portion, mixing until evenly colored.
- Step 8:
- Roll small dough balls from each color and gently press them together to create multi-colored cookie dough balls, keeping colors distinct.
- Step 9:
- Place the colorful dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Step 10:
- Slightly flatten each ball with your palm.
- Step 11:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly golden.
- Step 12:
- Cool cookies on the sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Step 13:
- For the icing (optional), whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
- Step 14:
- Drizzle icing over the cooled cookies and let it set.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve cookies at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Helpful Notes
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant hues without affecting dough consistency.
- Adjust icing consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Zoe: “Chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking to help maintain the cookie shapes.”
- Chef Luke: “Add a bit of lemon zest for a citrusy zing in the icing.”
Why Are These Cookies Perfect for Celebrations?
The bright, multi-colored appearance of Rainbow Sherbet Cookies makes them a hit at any celebration, from birthdays to summer parties. Their soft, chewy texture and subtle fruity flavors make them irresistible!
How to Customize Your Rainbow Sherbet Cookies
Get creative by adding different flavor extracts, using a variety of food coloring, or topping with sprinkles for extra fun. You can also create a swirled effect by lightly folding two colored doughs together.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies or the raw dough balls. Thaw before baking or serving.
How do I make the colors more vibrant?
Use gel food coloring for brighter colors without altering the dough’s texture.
How do I prevent overmixing the dough?
Mix just until combined, and stop as soon as no more flour is visible in the dough.
Summary
Rainbow Sherbet Cookies are a playful twist on classic sugar cookies, featuring vibrant colors and a soft, chewy texture. The dough is divided into multiple portions, each tinted with bright food coloring to mimic the fun hues of rainbow sherbet. Optional lime or raspberry extracts can be added for a fruity kick. These cookies are easy to prepare and perfect for parties, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a splash of color. The simple icing drizzle adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes them even more delightful. Bake a batch of these colorful cookies and bring a bit of cheer to your table!