Polar Bear Cookies
Delightful and whimsical cookies decorated to look like polar bears, perfect for holiday gatherings and family activities.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, brought to room temperature For a rich and creamy base.
- 1/2 cup full-fat cream cheese, also at room temperature Adds a delightful tang and creaminess.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar For sweetness with a perfect sugary crunch.
- 1 large egg Brings moisture and binds the ingredients.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste Infuses cookies with a warm aroma.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Lends structure to the cookies.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch Adds tenderness to the texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt Balances sweetness.
For the Frosting and Decoration
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature For a luxurious frosting.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (for frosting) Enhances frosting flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt (for frosting) Balances taste.
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar Creates light and fluffy frosting.
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, at room temperature Achieves smooth frosting.
- 1 cup coarse sanding sugar Adds texture and sweetness.
- 30 large chocolate chips For the bears' eyes.
- to taste Round black sprinkles For the nose decoration.
- to taste Round red or pink sprinkles For the cheeks.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and cream cheese until fluffy, about two minutes.
- Gradually mix in the granulated sugar, and then add the egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Baking
- Once chilled, scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting and Decorating
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy and gradually add the powdered sugar.
- Add the heavy whipping cream and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy and smooth.
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, frost them generously and decorate with sanding sugar, chocolate chips for eyes, and sprinkles for noses and cheeks.
Notes
For consistent baking, use a cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly. Let your decorated cookies be a fun activity with family and friends! Store any leftovers in an airtight container.