Description
These Easter Bunny Button Cookies are festive, buttery sugar cookies decorated with pastel royal icing and candy buttons. Perfect for Easter celebrations, springtime gatherings, or as a fun baking project with kids, these cookies are as adorable as they are delicious! With customizable decorations and a soft, sweet texture, they make a delightful homemade treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Royal Icing:
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons meringue powder
- 4–5 tablespoons water
- Gel food coloring (pastel colors like pink, yellow, blue, and green)
For Decorating:
- Small round candies (M&Ms or Skittles for “buttons”)
- Edible markers or piping gel (for bunny faces)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
1. Make the Sugar Cookie Dough
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
2. Roll and Cut the Cookies
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a round cookie cutter (2–3 inches) to cut out circles.
- Use a smaller round cutter or the back of a piping tip to cut out a small center circle for the “button” effect.
- Transfer cookies to a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Make the Royal Icing
- Whisk powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth and glossy.
- Divide icing into bowls and tint with pastel gel food coloring.
4. Decorate the Cookies
- Pipe the edges with icing, then flood the centers and let dry.
- Place small candies in the center for the “button” detail.
- Use edible markers or piping gel to draw bunny faces.
- Let the icing set completely before serving.
Notes
- Different Shapes: Try using flower, egg, or chick-shaped cutters.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and aquafaba instead of egg.
- Extra Flavor: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an added touch.
