Best Easter Cookies – Classic Holiday Treat Recipe

There’s something undeniably magical about Easter baking—the pastel hues, the scent of vanilla and butter filling the kitchen, and the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones. Some of my fondest childhood memories revolve around my grandmother’s Easter cookie tin, always brimming with delicate, buttery delights. Now, as I carry on the tradition with my own little ones, I’ve perfected our family’s favorite Easter cookie recipe. Soft, lightly spiced, and just sweet enough, these cookies are perfect for decorating with little hands or gifting to neighbors. Let’s bake some happiness together!

The Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients—most of which you likely already have in your pantry:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our cookies. For a lighter texture, you can substitute ½ cup with cake flour.
• 1 tsp baking powder – A little lift to keep them tender.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – A whisper of warmth that makes these cookies extra special.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The key to rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt to ¼ tsp.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Just enough sweetness without overpowering.
• 1 large egg – Binds everything together with a touch of richness.
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract – Always opt for the real stuff—it makes all the difference.
• Pastel sprinkles or sanding sugar – For that festive Easter touch!

Step-by-Step Baking Guide

Follow these simple steps for cookies that turn out perfect every time:

1. Whisk the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Give it a gentle whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed—no one wants a bite with too much spice!
2. Cream the butter and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step is crucial for that dreamy texture, so don’t rush it!
3. Add the egg and vanilla. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, then mix in the vanilla. The batter should look smooth and slightly glossy.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as no flour streaks remain.
5. Chill the dough. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This prevents spreading and makes rolling easier. Tip: If you’re short on time, pop the dough in the freezer for 15 minutes instead.
6. Roll and cut. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface and cut into shapes with Easter-themed cookie cutters (bunnies, eggs, and flowers are our favorites!).
7. Bake to golden perfection. Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just barely golden. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake!
8. Decorate with love. Let the cookies cool completely, then have fun decorating with icing, sprinkles, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

Easter just wouldn’t be complete without a platter of freshly baked cookies to share with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or packing sweet treats for an egg hunt, these cookie recipes are sure to bring smiles. Below, we’ve included some pro tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions to help you make the most of your Easter baking!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Every baker has their own twist, and these cookies are wonderfully adaptable. Here are a few ways to make them your own:

• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. Just be sure to add a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t include it.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of regular butter, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of citrus zest (lemon or orange works beautifully) or a dash of cinnamon to the dough for a seasonal twist.
• Decorating Ideas: Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies and sprinkle with pastel-colored sprinkles for a festive touch.

What to Serve With Easter Cookies

These cookies pair perfectly with other Easter treats and beverages. Consider serving them alongside:

• A warm cup of spiced chai or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• A platter of fresh fruit, like strawberries and pineapple, to balance the sweetness.
• A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent cookie sandwich.
• A glass of cold milk (or almond milk) for the little ones—and the young at heart!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your cookies tasting fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: For that just-baked warmth, pop cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds or warm them in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for a month. Just let it soften slightly before scooping and baking.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

This usually happens if the butter was too soft or the dough wasn’t chilled before baking. Try refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Can I use natural egg dyes for decorating?

Yes! Turmeric (yellow), beet juice (pink), and spinach powder (green) make lovely natural dyes for icing or drizzles.

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Adding a slice of bread to the storage container helps retain moisture, keeping cookies soft for days.

A Sweet Final Thought

There’s something magical about baking cookies for Easter—the aroma filling the kitchen, the joy of sharing them with family, and the memories made with every bite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own creative flair, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Wishing you a warm, sweet, and delightful Easter!

Print