Fireplace Treat Vanilla Cloud Cookies (Print Version)
Soft, pillowy sugar cookies infused with vanilla, ideal for cozy times by the fire with your favorite warm drink.
# List of Ingredients:
→ Dry Ingredients
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
→ Wet Ingredients
05 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
07 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
08 - 2 tablespoons whole milk
09 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
→ For Dusting (Optional)
10 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
11 - 1 tablespoon vanilla sugar (or add 1/4 teaspoon vanilla powder to sugar)
# Step-by-step Instructions:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
03 - Using an electric mixer, cream softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
04 - Beat eggs in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in milk and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
05 - Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until a soft dough forms; avoid overmixing.
06 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls. Optionally, roll each in the vanilla sugar mixture for added flavor and crunch.
07 - Place dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
08 - Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft and pillowy. Avoid overbaking to maintain cloud-like texture.
09 - Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Their pillowy softness is like a little cloud of vanilla comfort that feels like a hug for your taste buds
- They’re surprisingly easy to make, perfect for those cozy days when you want something sweet without the fuss
02 -
- If you overmix the dough, the cookies turn dense – keeping it soft and gentle is key.
- Rolling cookies in vanilla sugar before baking adds a subtle crunch that’s absolutely game-changing.
03 -
- Softening butter to room temperature but not too warm ensures perfect creaming with sugar.
- The secret to that cloudlike softness is not overbaking; watch the edges and gentle puffy centers.