Get ready to transform your baking game with the most eye-catching, mouth-watering American-themed cookies that will make every celebration pop! These Patriotic Stripes and Stars Cookies aren't just desserts - they're edible works of art that will have your guests talking, Instagram-ing, and begging for the recipe. Whether you're gearing up for July 4th, Memorial Day, or just want to add some red, white, and blue spirit to your day, these stunning cookies are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and blue colored sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare your baking workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Transfer the cookie dough to a lightly floured surface and roll out to approximately 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use star-shaped and rectangular cookie cutters to create patriotic-themed shapes. Place cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Sprinkle red and blue colored sugar over the cookies in alternating stripe or star patterns for a festive appearance.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Use a light hand when mixing dry ingredients to keep cookies tender.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling for easier cutting and cleaner shapes.
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant sugar decorations that won't run.
- Invest in quality cookie cutters for precise star and rectangular shapes.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- For extra precision, use a ruler when rolling out dough to maintain consistent 1/4 inch thickness.
- Store cookies between parchment layers to preserve their beautiful decorative design.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
