Easter Galaxy Sugar Cookies are a vibrant and festive treat with a mesmerizing swirl of pastel colors. These buttery, soft sugar cookies are simple to make and perfect for spring celebrations, Easter gatherings, or as a fun baking project with kids. The blend of pink, blue, and purple dough creates a stunning galaxy-like effect, making these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Colorful and Fun – The swirled pastel colors give these cookies a magical, galaxy-inspired look.
- Soft and Chewy – A classic sugar cookie texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun activity for children to help mix colors and decorate with sprinkles.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Pink, blue, and purple gel food coloring
- 1/4 cup rainbow sprinkles
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Prepare the Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
Create the Swirl Effect
- Divide the cookie dough into three equal portions.
- Color each portion with pink, blue, and purple food coloring, mixing just until the color is evenly distributed.
- Gently press the colored doughs together and knead slightly to create a marbled effect. Be careful not to overmix, or the colors will blend too much.
Shape & Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Lightly press rainbow sprinkles onto the tops of each cookie dough ball.
- Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cool & Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy these soft, chewy cookies with a dreamy pastel swirl!
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 18-20 cookies
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Variations
- Glitter Effect – Add edible glitter for extra sparkle.
- Chocolate Chip Swirl – Fold in mini chocolate chips for added sweetness.
- Coconut Flavor – Replace almond extract with coconut extract for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Pastel Icing – Drizzle with a pastel glaze for an extra decorative touch.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Not necessary, but you can warm cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes to refresh them.
FAQs
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is best as it provides vibrant colors without altering the dough consistency.
What can I use instead of almond extract?
Simply omit it or replace it with another flavor like lemon or coconut extract.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
Can I use store-bought sugar cookie dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives the best texture and flavor.
How do I make the colors more vibrant?
Use a little more gel food coloring if needed, but avoid overmixing to maintain the marbled effect.
Can I make these cookies without sprinkles?
Absolutely! The swirled colors make them beautiful even without extra decorations.
What’s the best way to shape the dough for even baking?
Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size and even baking.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.
How do I keep cookies soft for longer?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
Conclusion
Easter Galaxy Sugar Cookies are a fun, colorful, and delicious treat that brings joy to any celebration. With their mesmerizing pastel swirls and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for Easter, springtime parties, or anytime you want a little extra sweetness. Try this recipe today and enjoy a burst of color and flavor in every bite!
