Soft Funfetti Cookies are everything you want in a celebration cookie. They're buttery, packed with vanilla flavor, and dotted with colorful sprinkles that make every bite feel festive. Even better, these cookies stay incredibly soft and chewy thanks to a special combination of granulated sugar and powdered sugar.
Whether you're baking for birthdays, holidays, or just because you want something cheerful, Soft Funfetti Cookies never disappoint. They look beautiful, taste amazing, and come together with simple pantry ingredients.
The first time I made Soft Funfetti Cookies, I wanted something fun but still classic. I used my favorite soft sugar cookie base, folded in a generous handful of sprinkles, and pulled them from the oven just before they browned. When I broke one open, the center was tender and slightly chewy with a buttery vanilla aroma. Since then, this recipe has become my go-to for every celebration.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Beat butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar for 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients and mix just until incorporated. Fold in sprinkles.
- Scoop 1½ tablespoon portions, place 2 inches apart, and bake 11-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft.
- Cool on baking sheet 5-10 minutes before transferring to wire rack.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why Soft Funfetti Cookies Stay So Tender
The Secret Ingredient: Powdered Sugar
Soft Funfetti Cookies use both granulated sugar and powdered sugar. While granulated sugar provides structure, powdered sugar adds tenderness.
Because powdered sugar contains cornstarch, it helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture. As a result, these cookies feel softer than traditional sugar cookies.
If you substitute all granulated sugar, the cookies will still taste delicious. However, they won't be quite as soft.
Slightly Underbaking for Perfect Texture
One of the most important steps in making Soft Funfetti Cookies is removing them from the oven at the right time. Bake just until the edges barely begin to turn golden.
The centers should still look soft when you take them out. Since cookies continue baking from residual heat, this method ensures a chewy middle instead of a dry one.
Ingredients That Make These Cookies Shine
Pantry Staples You Likely Already Have
Here's what you'll need for Soft Funfetti Cookies:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Fine salt
- Unsalted butter (room temperature)
- Granulated sugar
- Powdered sugar
- Egg
- Pure vanilla extract
- Sprinkles
Room temperature butter is essential. It creams more easily with sugar, which helps create structure and softness.
Measure flour carefully. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can cause cookies to spread less or become dense.
Choosing the Right Sprinkles
Not all sprinkles behave the same in baked goods. Some bleed color into the dough, while others hold their shape.
For Soft Funfetti Cookies, use jimmies-style sprinkles rather than nonpareils. Jimmies keep their color and distribute evenly throughout the dough.
You can customize colors for any occasion:
- Red and green for Christmas
- Pink and red for Valentine's Day
- Pastels for baby showers
- Red, white, and blue for summer holidays
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Soft Funfetti Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Sifting helps distribute the leavening evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixer bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, beat butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar for about 4 minutes on medium-low speed.
This longer creaming step builds structure and creates a lighter texture.
Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix just until combined.
Step 3: Combine and Fold in Sprinkles
Gradually add the flour mixture. Mix only until incorporated.
Then gently fold in sprinkles. Do not overmix, as that can make the cookies tough.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Scoop dough into 1½ tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 11-12 minutes. The edges should just begin to brown while the centers remain soft.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Soft Funfetti Cookies
Avoid Overmixing
Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to firmer cookies.
Control Cookie Spread
If your cookies spread too much, the butter may have been too warm. Chilling the dough for 30-60 minutes can help control spreading.
Make Them Extra Festive
Roll the dough balls lightly in extra sprinkles before baking for a colorful outer layer. This step enhances the appearance without affecting texture.
Storage and Freezing
Store Soft Funfetti Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
You can also freeze the dough. Double wrap it to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator for several hours before baking.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes. Substitute plant-based butter with similar fat content.
Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Butter may have been too soft or overmixed. Try chilling the dough next time.
Can I add white chocolate chips?
Absolutely. Add ½ cup to 1 cup along with the sprinkles.
How many cookies does this recipe make?
About 24 cookies using 1½ tablespoon portions.
Can I use only granulated sugar?
Yes, but the cookies will be slightly less soft.
Conclusion
Soft Funfetti Cookies deliver buttery vanilla flavor, colorful sprinkles, and an irresistibly chewy texture. Thanks to powdered sugar and careful baking, they stay tender in the center with lightly crisp edges.
Whether you bake them for birthdays, holidays, or simply to brighten an ordinary day, these cookies bring instant joy. Make a batch once, and you'll find yourself reaching for this recipe every time you want something festive and delicious.
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