Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion, then you have to try these Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting! These cookies are not just adorable, but they also pack a punch of flavor and color with the festive sprinkles. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a soft, buttery cookie filled with creamy frosting. Whether it’s a birthday, a casual family gathering, or just a sweet way to brighten your day, these cookies are sure to make everyone smile!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just a few basic pantry staples and some fun sprinkles are all you need. Plus, they’re perfect for making ahead of time and freezing for later. So, let’s dive right into how to make these little delights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of steps, you’ll have delicious cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, especially when sprinkles are involved!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake these cookies in advance and keep them in the freezer for future treats.
• Endless customization: Feel free to play around with different colors of frosting and sprinkles!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread and sweet frosting is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These funfetti shortbread sandwich cookies come together using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easily found at your local grocery store. Gather these up for a fun baking adventure!

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 1 Egg (room temperature)
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 tsp Almond Extract
• 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 Funfetti sprinkles

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tbsp Vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 – 3 cups Powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp Heavy cream
• Food coloring (optional)

Variations

One of the best parts about these Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies is that they are incredibly flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Change the Sprinkles: Use seasonal or themed sprinkles for holidays like Christmas or Halloween!
• Try Different Extracts: Experiment with coconut or lemon extract instead of almond for a new flavor twist.
• Make It Chocolatey: Add cocoa powder to the cookie dough for chocolate-flavored funfetti cookies.
• Swap the Frosting Style: Instead of buttercream, use cream cheese frosting for a tangy touch!

How to Make Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming together your softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into your dough, making your cookies soft and tender. Then, add in your egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract—mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Slowly add this mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This helps prevent flour from flying everywhere! Finally, fold in those colorful funfetti sprinkles—you want them evenly distributed throughout.

Step 3: Shape Your Cookies

Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball slightly; this will help them spread evenly while baking. Remember not to crowd them too closely on the sheet—give them space to grow!

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake those beauties for about 8 minutes or until just set around the edges. They will continue cooking slightly after being removed from the oven due to residual heat. Let them cool completely before adding frosting.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and vanilla extract until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar until smooth—feel free to adjust consistency with heavy cream as needed! If you’d like to add food coloring for an extra pop of color, now’s your chance!

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwiches

Take one cookie and spread or pipe frosting onto its bottom side before topping it with another cookie. Press gently so that it sticks—now you have a scrumptious sandwich cookie ready to enjoy!

Give these Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting a try next time you’re craving something sweet! They bring joy not only through their taste but also through their cheerful appearance—a perfect treat for sharing!

Pro Tips for Making Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting

Baking these delightful cookies can be a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to ensure your Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and egg to reach room temperature helps create a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and a tender cookie texture.
• Chill the dough: After mixing, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in a thicker, more satisfying shortbread.
• Don’t overmix: When combining the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of that light, crumbly texture we love in shortbread.
• Measure flour accurately: Too much flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method—spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.
• Experiment with colors: If you’re feeling creative, add different food coloring to your frosting or sprinkles to match any theme or occasion. It makes these cookies not only tasty but visually appealing!

How to Serve Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting

Presenting your Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies in an inviting way can make them even more enjoyable! Here are some fun ideas for serving these sweet treats:

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the cookie’s richness.
• Extra Sprinkles: Sprinkle some additional funfetti on top of each filled sandwich cookie for a pop of color and fun!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dairy-free chocolate over the top creates a delicious contrast and an elegant touch.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. Choose seasonal fruits like berries, melons, or citrus for vibrant colors and flavors.
• Vanilla Non-Dairy Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla non-dairy ice cream for a delightful dessert duo that’s sure to impress.
• Milk Alternative: Pair these cookies with almond milk or oat milk for a comforting drink that complements their sweetness.
• Coffee or Tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience and balances out the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy delicious Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting at your next gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance and enjoy them whenever a sweet craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If the frosting is applied, keep the cookies separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• For best freshness, consume within a few days of making.

Freezing

• Place unfilled shortbread cookies on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature before filling.

Reheating

• These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature and do not require reheating.
• If desired, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-baked feel!

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I make Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in this recipe while maintaining the same measurements.

What kind of frosting works best for Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies?

A classic buttercream frosting is ideal. You can also experiment with cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist!

How long do Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies last?

In an airtight container at room temperature, they will stay fresh for about 5 days.

Can I use different types of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any colorful sprinkles you love, or even themed ones for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting! They’re such a delightful treat that brings a smile to any gathering or quiet afternoon at home. Enjoy sharing (or not sharing!) these delicious bites with friends and family. Happy baking!