Sand Dollar Cookies: 6 Irresistible Coastal Treats

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Sand Dollar Cookies are unique and show-stopping cookies made with only six ingredients. Light and buttery, these delightful treats are perfumed with almond extract and boast a crisp texture that softly crumbles in your mouth. Perfect for holiday platters, summer picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, these scratch cutout sugar cookies can be a conversation starter. Let’s dive into how to make these ocean-themed cookies that capture the essence of the beach!

Why You’ll Love This Sand Dollar Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore these Sand Dollar Cookies. First, they’re incredibly simple to make, making them an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Second, with just six ingredients—many of which you likely already have on hand—they’re budget-friendly. Third, these cookies are versatile and can be adapted with various Sand Dollar Cookie decorating ideas. Fourth, their light and buttery flavor paired with almond extract provides a delightful taste sensation. Fifth, they make for beautiful beach-themed cookie recipes, perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations. Lastly, they can be made ahead of time and stored, ensuring you always have a sweet treat on hand!

Ingredients for Sand Dollar Cookies

Gather these items:

12 tablespoons butter
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract (or to taste, vanilla extract may be substituted)
2 cups all-purpose flour
Sliced almonds (as needed)

How to Make Sand Dollar Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the butter and sugar. Beat on high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Step 2: Add the egg and almond extract, and beat to incorporate, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Step 3: Add the flour (and 1/2 tsp salt if you’re using unsalted butter) and beat on low speed until just incorporated and a smooth dough forms.
Step 4: Pat the dough into a large ball, wrap it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 350F and line 3 baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 6: Lightly flour your clean countertop, place the chilled dough on it, and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Step 7: Cut the dough into round discs using a 2 1/2-inch cookie cutter, placing no more than 12 discs on each baking sheet.
Step 8: Place 5 almond slices into the center of each disc to create a sand dollar appearance.
Step 9: Create small holes on each piece using a straw or exacto knife, then remove the dough from the straw.
Step 10: Bake for approximately 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Step 11: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to wire racks to cool fully.
Step 12: Optionally dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sand Dollar Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Use unsalted butter for best results.
Adjust almond extract to your taste; add more for a stronger flavor.
Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake quickly, especially since they are thin.
To make rolling easier, divide the dough into two halves and roll out one at a time.

Best Ways to Serve Sand Dollar Cookies

These Sand Dollar Cookies are perfect on their own, but you can also pair them with fresh fruit or ice cream for a delightful dessert. They make wonderful gifts when wrapped in decorative packaging for special occasions or holidays. Additionally, consider serving them at beach-themed parties or summer gatherings as delicious ocean-themed cookies.

How to Store and Reheat Sand Dollar Cookies

To store your Sand Dollar Cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes, which will help restore their crispness. This is a great way to ensure your homemade treats are always fresh and ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sand Dollar Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Sand Dollar Cookies?

The key to perfect Sand Dollar Cookies is to ensure your butter is at room temperature and not over-mixing the dough. This keeps the texture light and flaky, reminiscent of traditional Sand Dollar Treats.

Can I make Sand Dollar Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. This makes it convenient to bake fresh cookies whenever you need them, perfect for beach-themed cookie recipes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sand Dollar Cookies?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your oven is properly preheated and avoid over-baking the cookies. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Following the Sand Dollar Cookie baking tips will help you achieve the best results.

Variations of Sand Dollar Cookies You Can Try

There are many fun variations to explore! You can replace almond extract with vanilla or experiment with flavored extracts like coconut for a tropical twist. Consider adding colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for festive occasions, or try incorporating lemon zest for a refreshing flavor. For a savory twist, consider making Sand Dollar Biscuits by adding cheese and herbs!