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Tastes just like the Starbucks version!|Buttery shortbread with perfect icing ratio|Kids loved decorating their own snowmen|Better than waiting in line!|Held shape perfectly while baking|Impressive holiday treat for minimal effort!|Perfect with hot cocoa on snowy days!
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Snowman Cookie Recipe
Master how to make Starbucks' iconic snowman cookies at home with this quick and easy recipe. These buttery shortbread treats decorated with sweet royal icing bring the coffee shop's holiday magic to your kitchen—perfect for festive gatherings, gifts, or simply enjoying with your favorite hot beverage.
Prep
25 mins
Cook
10 mins
Serve
12
Kcal
320
<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">225g unsalted butter, softened</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g granulated sugar</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 large egg</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp almond extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400g all-purpose flour</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp baking powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">500g royal icing (premade or homemade)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Food coloring (orange, black, and blue)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g white fondant (for snowman arms and details)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Edible silver or pearl dust (optional)</li></ul>
<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This creates the base for our tender cookies, so don't rush this step.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be firm but not sticky.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Divide the dough into two equal portions and flatten each into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll out easily.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Preheat your oven to 180°C and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to slightly soften.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 6mm thickness. Using a round cookie cutter (about 7-8cm in diameter), cut out circles and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2cm between each cookie.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake! The cookies should remain pale. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> While the cookies cool, prepare your royal icing. Divide the icing into four portions: keep the largest portion white, then color one portion orange (for the carrot nose), one black (for the eyes and buttons), and one light blue (for the scarf).</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Place each colored icing in a piping bag. For the white icing, you'll need a thicker consistency for outlining and a slightly thinned consistency for flooding. First, outline the snowman shape on each cookie with the thicker white icing, leaving room at the bottom for the scarf.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 10</h4> Once the outlines have set (about 15-20 minutes), flood the snowman areas with the thinned white icing. Use a toothpick to guide the icing into the corners and pop any air bubbles. Allow this layer to dry completely, at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 11</h4> Roll out the white fondant and cut thin strips for the snowman's arms. Attach these to the sides of the snowman using a small dab of royal icing as glue.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 12</h4> Using the black icing, pipe two small dots for the eyes and three dots down the middle for buttons. With the orange icing, pipe a small triangle in the middle for the carrot nose.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 13</h4> Using the blue icing, pipe a scarf around the bottom of the snowman's head. Add some texture by piping small lines to represent the fringe of the scarf.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 14</h4> If using, lightly brush the white snowman area with edible silver or pearl dust for a magical shimmer effect. Allow all icing to dry completely before storing or serving.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 15</h4> Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the designs from getting damaged.</li></ol>
FAQ for
Snowman Cookie Recipe
How long do snowman sugar cookies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these decorated snowman cookies will stay fresh for up to one week. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent the royal icing designs from getting damaged or sticking together.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, the sugar cookie dough can be made up to 3 days in advance when stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months - just thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and cutting into shapes.
What's the secret to perfectly flat sugar cookies for decorating?
For perfectly flat cookies ideal for decorating, chill the dough thoroughly, roll to an even thickness (6mm is perfect), and use baking sheets that won't warp in the oven. Don't overbake - remove when the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
How can I prevent my royal icing from bleeding into different colours?
To prevent colour bleeding in royal icing, ensure each layer is completely dry before adding the next colour (typically 4+ hours or overnight). Work with the right consistency - outline with thicker icing, then flood with slightly thinner icing.
What alternatives can I use instead of almond extract in Christmas cookies?
If avoiding almond extract, use additional vanilla extract, or try other festive flavours like peppermint extract, orange extract, or lemon zest. For a unique twist, consider maple extract or a hint of cinnamon - just use the same measurement as called for in the recipe.
The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.