Pin It Whimsical, colorful treats inspired by the ocean, these mermaid tail sweets combine soft sugar cookies with shimmering buttercream and candy pearls—a magical dessert perfect for parties or special occasions.
This recipe brings a whimsical touch to baking that delights both kids and adults at every gathering.
Ingredients
- For the Sugar Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, Gel food coloring (teal, purple, pink, blue)
- For Decoration: Edible shimmer dust or glitter, Candy pearls or sprinkles
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut out mermaid tail shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Step 6:
- Place cookies on prepared sheets and bake for 10 12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7:
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
- Step 8:
- Divide frosting into 3 4 bowls. Tint each with a different gel food coloring.
- Step 9:
- Using piping bags with star or petal tips, pipe colored buttercream onto cooled cookies to create mermaid tails.
- Step 10:
- Dust with edible shimmer and decorate with candy pearls or sprinkles as desired.
Pin It Our family loves gathering to decorate these cookies together, making every party festive and fun.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Measuring cups and spoons, Rolling pin, Mermaid tail cookie cutter, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Piping bags and decorative tips, Cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter, milk). Contains food coloring check for sensitivities. Always verify ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Calories 210, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 28 g, Protein 2 g
Pin It This whimsical recipe adds a splash of ocean magic to your baking, perfect for any celebration.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best type of flour for tender sugar cookies?
All-purpose flour works well, providing the right balance of structure and tenderness for soft cookies.
- → How can I achieve vibrant frosting colors?
Use gel food coloring for intense hues without thinning the buttercream consistency.
- → What’s the ideal baking temperature for these cookies?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until edges turn lightly golden.
- → Can I prepare the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, buttercream frosting can be made in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator; bring to room temperature before use.
- → How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough before cutting and ensure butter is softened but not melted to maintain shape during baking.