Name: Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups that Kids Will Love
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 49 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough (Opt for the flat package for easy prep.); 1/2 cup Butter (Choose salted for richer taste or unsalted for control over sweetness.); 3 cups Powdered Sugar (Critical for sweetness and stability.); 1/2 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Creates a light and fluffy consistency.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Avoid substitutes for best taste.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Only required if using unsalted butter.); 1 drop Green Food Coloring (Optional to tint frosting.); 1 cup Hershey's Egg Candies (For festive crunch; can swap for other candies.)

As the scent of warm cookies fills the air, there’s nothing quite like that feeling of excitement, especially when I whip up my festive Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups. These delightful little treats come alive with their crisp cookie shells, sweet vanilla buttercream, and a sprinkle of colorful chocolate egg candies—a perfect blend of fun and flavor. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s not just a sweet end to a meal; it’s a delightful family project that young hands can assist with, making it truly kid-friendly. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to prepare, allowing even the busiest home chef to whip up a show-stopping dessert without stress. Ready to turn your kitchen into a joyful Easter wonderland? Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why Are These Cookie Cups a Must-Try?

Simple, Fun Project: You can involve the whole family in creating these delightful cookie cups, making for an unforgettable kitchen experience.
Decadent Flavors: The combination of buttery cookie and fluffy vanilla buttercream creates a luxurious taste that is sure to impress!
Versatile Decoration: Switch up the toppings with different candies, making it a canvas for seasonal creativity—perfect for any occasion!
Quick Prep Time: With just a few easy steps, you’ll have these treats ready in no time, leaving more moments for celebration.
Perfect Easter Treat: These cookies not only look festive but also embody the spirit of Easter with their playful design, making them a hit at gatherings!
For more delightful cookie inspiration, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies or Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Ingredients

Get ready to create these delightful Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups with these must-have ingredients!

For the Cookie Cups

Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough – This forms the essential base of the basket; opt for the flat package for easy prep.
Butter – A key player in your buttercream; choose salted for a richer taste or unsalted for more control over sweetness.

For the Buttercream Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Critical for sweetness and stability in your frosting, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream – This creates a light and fluffy consistency; substitutions may lead to a denser frosting.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to your buttercream; avoid substitutes for the best taste.
Salt – Only required if using unsalted butter to elevate the overall flavor profile.

For Decoration

Green Food Coloring – This optional addition helps tint your frosting to resemble grass in the basket for a festive touch.
Hershey’s Egg Candies – These delightful candies add a vibrant color and festive crunch; feel free to swap for jelly beans or Cadbury Mini Eggs if desired.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s make those adorable Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups that kids of all ages will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grab your two muffin pans and generously spray them with cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the cookie cups later. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown finish on your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Open your package of Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough and place one portion into each muffin well. Gently press down to make sure the dough fills the bottom and sides of the wells. This will create a delightful cookie cup that will hold the delicious frosting later.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Cups
Place the muffin pans in your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them; you want them to be just set but not overbaked. The aroma of sugar cookies will fill your kitchen as they bake, making it hard to wait!

Step 4: Form the Cookie Baskets
As soon as the cookie cups are out of the oven, take a shot glass and gently press it into the center of each cookie cup to create a well. This step needs to be done while they’re still warm and soft, so work quickly to ensure your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups have the perfect shape.

Step 5: Cool the Cookie Cups
Let the cookie cups cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows them to set slightly while making it easier to remove from the muffin tin. Then, carefully transfer the cookie cups to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the frosting.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy whipping cream. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes. The fluffy vanilla buttercream is what makes these Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups so irresistibly delicious.

Step 7: Decorate the Cookie Cups
Once the cookie cups are completely cool, use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off to pipe the fluffy buttercream into each cup. Aim to create a beautiful mound that resembles grass. This step adds the perfect festive touch to your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, top each frosted cookie cup with colorful Hershey’s Egg Candies, or your choice of festive treats like jelly beans or Cadbury Mini Eggs. This not only makes your treats look adorable but adds a delightful crunch and surprise when you bite into them!

What to Serve with Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

Indulge in the magic of Easter by pairing these delightful cookie cups with complementary treats that enhance their festive charm.

Milk: The classic pairing that never goes out of style. A cold glass of milk beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookie cups.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brings a light, zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the cookie cups, perfect for springtime.
Carrot Cake: Celebrate Easter with this traditional dessert! The spiced flavors of carrot cake harmonize with the sweet vanilla buttercream, making for a deliciously nostalgic treat.
Chocolate Milkshake: A creamy, dreamy treat that kids will adore. The indulgent shake enhances the chocolatey notes of the egg candies atop the cookie cups.
Hot Cocoa: Perfect for cooler days, the warmth and creaminess of hot cocoa provide a cozy complement to the festive sweetness of the cookie cups.
Cupcakes: Colorful cupcakes can echo the playful theme of the cookie cups. Choose spring colors and fruity flavors for a delightful dessert spread.
Easter-themed Drinks: Whip up a fun, colorful punch using fruit juices and soda. Its vibrant appearance matches the joyful vibe of Easter festivities.

Combining these delightful options will create an inviting Easter spread, making your celebrations even sweeter!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these scrumptious treats with delightful twists and turns!

Different Candies: Explore various egg-themed candies like jelly beans or Robin’s Eggs for a personal touch. Each option offers a unique flavor and texture.
Colorful Frosting: Change the frosting color to represent your favorite team or holiday. A vibrant blue or pastel pink can add a playful flair and be perfect for spring celebrations.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed nuts like pecans or almonds into the frosting or as a topping for an added crunch. This nutty surprise can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Switch to chocolate frosting for an indulgent treat. This rich alternative harmonizes perfectly with the sugar cookie base, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Flavored Extracts: Try swapping vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract in your buttercream. A hint of almond adds a delightful twist, while lemon can brighten the overall flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based whipping cream. This way, everyone can enjoy a delicious treat regardless of their dietary preferences.
Scented Variants: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, inviting flavor that complements the sweetness of the frosting nicely.
Fruity Touch: Top your cookie cups with diced fruits like strawberries or raspberries instead of candies for a fresh and fruity alternative. It’s a delightful contrast that adds a burst of natural sweetness!

For even more delicious inspirations, don’t miss out on my Cheesecake Cookie Cups or a classic batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Expert Tips for Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

Baking Time: Check the cookie cups at the lower end of the baking time to prevent overbaking; warm, soft cookie bases are essential for shaping.
Cookie Release: Use a butter knife to gently loosen the edges before removing from the muffin pan; this helps maintain the integrity of your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups.
Cooling is Key: Ensure cookies are completely cool before piping frosting; warm cookies can melt the buttercream, ruining its texture.
Creative Toppings: Get creative with candy toppings! Feel free to use jelly beans or change the color of the frosting for a personal festive touch.
Piping Techniques: For a professional look, use a piping bag; if you don’t have one, a ziplock bag with the corner snipped works well too.

How to Store and Freeze Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you’ve already frosted the cookies, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking to enjoy fresh cookies!

Reheating: If needed, warm cookie cups gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their softness before adding frosting again.

Make Ahead Options

These Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie cups up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake and cool the cookie cups, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. For the buttercream, you can make it up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, whip the frosting briefly to restore its fluffy texture, and then pipe it into the cooled cookie cups. Finally, add the chocolate egg candies right before serving for a festive touch. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy Easter celebrations!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs

What type of sugar cookie dough should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough for this recipe, as it comes in flat, pre-portioned squares that fit perfectly in muffin tins. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use homemade sugar cookie dough as long as it’s chilled before placing it in the tins.

How should I store the unfrosted and frosted cookie cups?
For unfrosted cookie cups, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’ve already piped on the frosting, keep the cookie cups in the refrigerator in an airtight container and aim to consume them within 3 days to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze the cookie cups or dough?
Very much! You can freeze unbaked portions of the cookie dough for up to 3 months. To do this, portion the dough into muffin tin shapes and freeze until solid, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. For baked cookie cups, freeze before frosting; just ensure they are completely cooled.

How can I fix crumbly cookie cups that break easily?
If you’re dealing with crumbly cookie cups, it might be due to overbaking or not enough binding from the butter. Check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time (10 minutes) and make sure to let them cool properly in the pan. If they seem too dry after baking, you can also dab a little frosting on them before decorating, which adds moisture.

What if my buttercream frosting is too thick or thin?
If your buttercream frosting turns out too thick, you can gradually add more heavy whipping cream, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simply add more powdered sugar to thicken it up. Mixing on medium speed for a few minutes can also help achieve that perfect fluffy and spreadable texture.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! If anyone in your household has allergies, you can swap out the traditional ingredients. Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives for the frosting, and ensure that any candies added are free from allergens. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for the sugar cookie dough and toppings!