Easter Basket Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easter Basket Cookies are a festive and fun springtime treat that combines soft sugar cookies with colorful toppings to resemble mini Easter baskets. They’re perfect for kids’ parties, Easter brunches, or just as a cheerful dessert to celebrate the holiday. These cookies are easy to decorate and customizable with your favorite candies and frosting colors.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

flourunsalted buttersugarvanilla extracteggsbaking powdersaltgreen-tinted shredded coconutchocolate eggs or jelly beansvanilla or cream cheese frostingfood coloring (optional for frosting)tube or piped icing (for basket handles)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth dough forms.

Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.

Gently flatten each ball and press a thumbprint or spoon into the center to form a shallow well.

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely.

Once cooled, fill each cookie center with a small amount of frosting.

Top with green-tinted shredded coconut to resemble grass.

Nestle a few chocolate eggs or jelly beans into the coconut.

Use icing to pipe a handle across the top to complete the basket look.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 10–12 minutesDecorating time: 20 minutesTotal time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

Use chocolate cookie dough as a base for a richer flavor.

Swap the green coconut for edible grass candy.

Add almond or lemon extract for a unique flavor twist.

Use mini marshmallows or pastel sprinkles for decoration instead of candy eggs.

Create a no-bake version using pre-made cookies and frosting.

storage/reheating

Store Easter Basket Cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper.Refrigerate for longer freshness, up to 1 week.Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months; thaw and decorate before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cookies in advance and decorate them the day you plan to serve.

Do I have to use coconut?

No, you can skip it or use crushed green cereal or sprinkles instead.

What if I don’t have piping icing?

You can melt white chocolate or use candy laces for the basket handles.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes, sugar cookie dough works well for a shortcut.

How can I tint coconut green?

Add a few drops of green food coloring to shredded coconut and shake in a sealed bag until evenly coated.

Are these cookies suitable for kids to help decorate?

Absolutely—they’re a fun and easy decorating activity for kids.

What candies work best?

Chocolate eggs, jelly beans, or mini malted eggs are all great choices.

Can I use a different frosting?

Yes, buttercream, cream cheese, or even tinted whipped topping will work.

What if I don’t have a thumbprint tool?

Use the back of a spoon to create the indentation.

Do I have to use a handle?

No, the handle is optional—cookies still look festive without it.

Conclusion

Easter Basket Cookies bring a bright, playful touch to your holiday dessert table. Easy to make and fun to decorate, they’re a delightful way to celebrate Easter with both kids and adults. Whether you stick to the classic design or get creative with toppings, these cookies are sure to impress and spread springtime cheer.

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