Name: Deliciously Cute Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups to Make Together
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 package Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough (A soft base that forms the adorable cups; easy to handle straight from the package.); 0.5 cup Salted Butter (Adds a rich creaminess to the frosting; you can substitute with unsalted if preferred.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Sweetens the frosting and is vital for achieving that light, fluffy texture.); 0.5 cup Heavy Whipping Cream (Ensures a creamy, airy consistency; avoid low-fat versions for best results.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Infuses great flavor into the buttercream; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.); 2-3 drops Green Food Coloring (Adds a charming 'nest' look; try any color for seasonal variations.); 1 cup Hershey's Egg Candies (Provides a fun and festive touch; feel free to use jelly beans or mini chocolate eggs for variety.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but feel an irresistible surge of excitement—Easter was just around the corner! This year, I decided to make delightful Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups, a festive dessert that encapsulates the joy of the season. With a soft and chewy sugar cookie base cradling a swirl of fluffy vanilla buttercream, these cookie cups are not only easy to make, but they’re also a fantastic way to gather the family for some quality time in the kitchen. Perfect for little hands eager to help decorate, these treats encourage creativity with customizable toppings that can fit any theme. Trust me, watching those colorful chocolate eggs nestle into their creamy beds will melt your heart! Ready to whip up these cheerful sweets for your next celebration?

Why Make Easter Basket Cookie Cups?

Joyful Experience: Baking these cookie cups is a delightful way to welcome Easter! Families will love coming together to create these festive treats.

Easy to Assemble: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels—even kids will enjoy jumping in!

Customizable Fun: Swap out the candy for favorite treats like pastel M&Ms or jelly beans, ensuring everyone gets their pick.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for Easter brunch or spring parties, these colorful cups are sure to impress your guests.

Sweet Memories: Each bite delivers nostalgia and joy, reminding you of Easter gatherings past.

For more delightful desserts, check out Chocolate Chip Cookies or get inspired with our cute French Toast Muffin Cups!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Ingredients

• Perfect for spring celebrations!

For the Cookie Cups
• Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough – A soft base that forms the adorable cups; easy to handle straight from the package.
• Salted Butter – Adds a rich creaminess to the frosting; you can substitute with unsalted if preferred.

For the Buttercream Frosting
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and is vital for achieving that light, fluffy texture.
• Heavy Whipping Cream – Ensures a creamy, airy consistency; avoid low-fat versions for best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses great flavor into the buttercream; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Green Food Coloring – Adds a charming ‘nest’ look; try any color you like for seasonal variations.

For the Topping
• Hershey’s Egg Candies (or alternative) – Provides a fun and festive touch; feel free to use jelly beans or mini chocolate eggs for variety.

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming, generously spray two 12-cup muffin pans with cooking spray to ensure the cookie cups release easily after baking. Set the pans aside and get your Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough ready for an easy, fun baking experience that the whole family will enjoy.

Step 2: Cookie Dough Distribution
Take the prepared cookie dough and divide it evenly, placing one portion into each muffin well. Use your hands to flatten the dough slightly to ensure it spreads well during baking. Bake the cookie dough in the preheated oven for 10-14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned, so your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups come out soft and chewy.

Step 3: Shape the Cookie Cups
Once the cookies are done baking, immediately remove them from the oven. Using a small cup or shot glass, press down gently in the center of each cookie to create a shallow indentation, forming the basket shape. Take care to do this while they are warm; this will ensure the perfect cup design for your festive treats.

Step 4: Cool in the Pans
Allow the cookie cups to cool in the muffin pans for about 10 minutes. This cooling time helps them retain their shape while also making them easier to handle. Then, carefully transfer the partially cooled cookie cups onto a cooling rack, allowing them to cool completely before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Buttercream Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat softened salted butter until it reaches a fluffy consistency, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to mix. Once combined, pour in the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, mixing until your desired fluffy frosting consistency is achieved. Add green food coloring to create a lovely ‘nest’ effect.

Step 6: Fill the Cookie Cups
Now that your cookie cups are fully cooled and the buttercream frosting is ready, it’s time to assemble your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups. Fill each cookie cup generously with the fluffy buttercream, swirling it on top for a delightful look. This creamy frosting will serve as a perfect nest for your chosen candy toppings.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
Finally, adorn each buttercream-filled cookie cup with 3 colorful Hershey’s Egg Candies or your preferred candy. These decorative touches not only add sweetness but also bring a festive spirit to your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups, making them irresistible treats for your spring celebrations.

What to Serve with Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups?

Delight in creating a vibrant spread that perfectly complements these festive treats and enhances your spring celebrations.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds a burst of color and vibrant flavor that balances the sweetness of the cookie cups. Perfect for adding a cheerful touch to your dessert table.
Mini Chocolate Cupcakes: Rich, moist chocolate cupcakes topped with fluffy frosting provide a delightful contrast to the sugar cookie flavors. Guests will love having two dessert options to savor!
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the chewy cookie cups, enhancing the overall dessert experience and creating a delightful temperature contrast.
Lemonade Punch: A zesty lemonade punch brightens the palette and refreshes the palate, making it an ideal beverage to serve alongside these sweet treats. A splash of sparkling water adds a bubbly twist!
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet, juicy strawberries bring an elegant touch to your dessert table. Their juicy burst complements the cookie cups with layers of flavor everyone will adore.
Peanut Butter Cookies: For those who love a nutty contrast, classic peanut butter cookies offer a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor, making them a fitting pairing alongside the sugar cookie cups.
Colorful Sprinkles: Set up a sprinkle bar with colorful toppings that guests can add to their cookie cups, allowing everyone to customize their treats and add an extra element of fun.
Iced Tea: Serve a refreshing pitcher of iced tea to balance the sweetness, creating a delightful beverage option that caters to both kids and adults alike.
Festive Cake Pops: Cute, bite-sized cake pops in pastel colors create a whimsical touch and perfectly complement the playful spirit of Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups.

Expert Tips for Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

Don’t Overbake: Check your cookies at the 10-minute mark to avoid dry, crumbly cookie cups. You want them soft and chewy for the perfect Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups.
Buttercream Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a little more heavy whipping cream until it’s fluffy and spreadable. Don’t hesitate to tweak for your ideal texture!
Muffin Pan Preparation: Generously spray your muffin pans before adding the cookie dough. This ensures your cookie cups pop out perfectly without any sticking!
Cool Completely: Always let your cookie cups cool fully before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and ensures a lovely presentation.
Creative Toppings: Personalize your cookie cups by experimenting with different candies or sprinkles. Everyone will enjoy getting their favorite flavors on these delightful treats!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your sugar cookie cups with these fun variations that will excite both kids and adults alike!

Candy Choices: Swap chocolate eggs for Reese’s peanut butter eggs or pastel M&Ms for a delicious twist. This allows each cookie cup to reflect different tastes and favorites!
Frosting Colors: Use vibrant food colorings like yellow or blue to match your spring festivities. Imagine a bright blue buttercream that adds a whimsical vibe to your treats.
Alternative Cookie Bases: Try using gluten-free cookie mixes or even chocolate cookie dough for deeper flavors. The chocolate version pairs wonderfully with your favorite candies!
Nutty Flavor: Add chopped nuts like finely crushed pistachios or walnuts into your buttercream for a delightful crunch. This not only adds texture but also a flavor surprise!
Fruit Toppings: Top your cookie cups with dried fruits or fresh berries for a refreshing twist. Strawberries could add a lovely pop of color and a juicy bite to each one!
Flavor Infusions: Mix in some lemon or almond extract into your buttercream for a fragrant finish that enhances the sweetness beautifully. Imagine biting into a cookie cup with the warmth of almond flavor.

For more delightful variations that can bring sweetness to your gatherings, don’t forget to check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies and those adorable French Toast Muffin Cups!

Storage Tips for Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups

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

Fridge: If you’ve made frosted cookie cups, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unfrosted cookie cups in a single layer for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting to preserve their texture and taste.

Reheating: To warm up cookie cups slightly, place them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will give them a fresh-baked feel, making them even more enjoyable!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing these Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups in advance is a brilliant way to save time during the busy holiday! You can bake the cookie cups up to 2 days ahead of time. Simply cool them completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. For the buttercream frosting, it can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just be sure to give it a quick whip before filling the cookie cups to restore its fluffiness. When you’re ready to serve, fill the cooled cookie cups with the frosting and top with your favorite candies. This way, you can enjoy delightful treats with minimal last-minute effort, perfect for any festive gathering!

Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely! When choosing sugar cookie dough, go for the Pillsbury Sugar Cookie Dough, as it’s designed for easy handling and consistent results. Ensure you select the flat package, which is more pliable and perfect for forming your cookie cups.

How should I store the unfrosted cookie cups?
Very! You can store unfrosted cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for frosting when you desire delicious homemade treats.

Can I freeze the cookie cups for later use?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze unfrosted cookie cups, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting to ensure they maintain their soft texture.

What if my buttercream frosting is too thick?
Not a problem! If you’ve found your buttercream to be too thick, simply add a little more heavy whipping cream, about 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until you reach the desired fluffy consistency. Adjusting this will help you achieve the perfect swirl for your Easter Basket Sugar Cookie Cups!

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! For those with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. The recipe includes gluten from the cookie dough and dairy in the butter and heavy cream. You may consider using gluten-free cookie dough and dairy-free alternatives for the buttercream, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats!