Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking to make something whimsical, buttery, and absolutely irresistible, these Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies are about to become your newest obsession. With their tender, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread dotted with colorful sprinkles and a silky vanilla buttercream sandwiched right in the middle, these cookies are all about bringing pure joy to your kitchen. Whether it’s a celebration, a rainy-day baking adventure, or simply a reason to treat yourself, this recipe hits that perfect sweet spot between nostalgia and indulgence. Once you see a plate full of these pretty cookies, you’ll understand why they never last long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the charm of Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies lies in their straightforward ingredient list. Each component, from creamy butter to a handful of vibrant sprinkles, plays an important role in building flavor, texture, and that “wow” visual impact every time you take a bite.

• Unsalted butter (for both buttercream & cookies): The backbone of both the cookies and the buttercream, creating a rich and ultra-tender crumb while allowing you to control the salt level.
• Vanilla extract: Intensifies the sweet, creamy flavors in both the cookie dough and the frosting. Don’t skimp here!
• Powdered sugar: Gives the buttercream its silky smoothness, and sweetens it to perfection.
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess and lightness to the vanilla buttercream; a simple addition that makes a big difference.
• Food coloring (optional): Perfect for getting creative with your buttercream — pick any hue to fit your mood or occasion.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that holds your shortbread sandwich cookies together, keeping them soft but not crumbly.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cookies achieve an ideal lightness, keeping them pleasantly soft without losing that classic shortbread snap.
• Cream of tartar: Essential for tang and structure, giving the cookie a little lift and chew.
• Salt: Just enough to balance all the sweetness and keep the flavors bright.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is what sweetens the cookies and helps them crisp ever so gently around the edges.
• Egg (room temperature): Brings the dough together and adds tender richness to the shortbread.
• Almond extract: Just a dash imparts an unmistakable aromatic depth that takes these cookies up a notch.
• Funfetti sprinkles: The stars of the show — they make every bite cheerful, colorful, and, well, fun!

How to Make Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies

Step 1: Whip Up the Vanilla Buttercream

Start with the buttercream so it’s ready to go when your cookies are cooled and ready to be sandwiched. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter for 2-3 minutes until it’s pale and fluffy. Once the texture is dreamy, blend in the vanilla extract and heavy cream until combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about half a cup at a time, mixing slowly and scraping down the sides as needed. If the frosting seems too thick, splash in a little more cream; if it’s too thin, add a spoonful of powdered sugar at a time. As a fun bonus, swirl in a drop or two of food coloring for pastel or vibrant hues that pop between your cookies!

Step 2: Mix Up the Shortbread Cookie Dough

With your buttercream tucked aside, it’s time for the cookies. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lay out parchment-lined baking sheets to prevent sticking and woes. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar on medium until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the vanilla, almond extract, and egg, scraping down the bowl for even mixing. On low speed, fold in your dry ingredients just until the dough starts to come together, then gently stir in those cheerful funfetti sprinkles—try not to overmix so your colors stay vivid.

Step 3: Shape and Chill Your Cookies

Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out your cookie dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter (classic rounds, stars, or hearts are adorable), and cut out as many shapes as possible. Gather, reroll, and repeat with any dough scraps. Arrange your cookies on the prepared sheets, leaving a little room between each for spreading, then pop them in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures your cookies don’t spread too thin, holding onto their adorable shapes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Once chilled, slide the cookies into your preheated oven and bake for 4-6 minutes, just until they’re set but still pale; this ensures a soft center and delicate bite. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before moving them to a rack — this helps them firm up without breaking.

Step 5: Frost and Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

After your cookies have cooled completely, it’s assembly time! Either pipe or generously spread the prepared buttercream onto the underside of half the cookies. Top each frosted cookie with a second cookie to form your adorable little sandwiches. Press together gently, and just like that, you have a batch of stunning, party-ready Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies.

How to Serve Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies

Garnishes

There’s never such a thing as too many sprinkles when it comes to Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies. Roll the buttercream edges in extra sprinkles for an extra burst of color and crunch, or dust the tops with a fine veil of powdered sugar to give them a bakery-style finish.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine solo but also pair perfectly with an icy glass of milk, a mug of creamy hot chocolate, or a bright, fruity iced tea. For birthdays or celebrations, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla or birthday cake ice cream for an unforgettable (and delightfully festive) sweet plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation! Stack your Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies on a fancy cake stand, tuck a few into clear treat bags as take-home party favors, or layer them inside a pastel box lined with tissue for a homemade gift that’s sure to brighten anyone’s day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is especially warm, you may want to store them in the fridge to prevent the buttercream from getting too soft—but let them come to room temp before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze un-sandwiched cookies and assembled Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies alike. To freeze, layer the cookies between sheets of parchment in an airtight container, or wrap sandwiches individually in plastic wrap. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat these (they’re perfect as is!), but if you want to bring back that fresh-baked softness, let refrigerated or frozen cookies sit out at room temperature for 30–60 minutes. If you’re warming unfilled cookies, a quick 10-second spin in the microwave works wonders—just don’t microwave the buttercream!

FAQs

Can I use different types of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Jimmies work best since they won’t bleed color as much as nonpareils. You can use any shape or color mix that fits your celebration or personal style, but steer clear of large, hard sprinkle shapes, which can affect the tender cookie texture.

Can I make the dough in advance?

Definitely! Prepare and wrap your dough tightly in plastic, then refrigerate for up to 2 days before rolling, cutting, and baking. You can even freeze it for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to bake.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes, swap in a good-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Check that your sprinkles are gluten-free as well, and keep an eye on your baking time—gluten-free cookies may need a minute less in the oven.

How do I know if my butter is soft enough?

Softened butter should give easily when pressed with your finger, but shouldn’t be shiny or melting. It’s key for achieving fluffy buttercream and tender shortbread—aim for about 65°F room temp for best results.

Can I flavor the buttercream differently?

You bet! Swap a little of the vanilla extract for lemon, orange, or almond extract, or even stir in a touch of freeze-dried berry powder for a burst of fruity color and flavor. It’s a great way to put your own spin on the classic Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to sprinkle a little extra happiness into your day, don’t hesitate to whip up these darling Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies. They’re as much fun to bake as they are to share and eat, and I promise you’ll reach for this recipe every time you want a treat that’s both playful and delicious!

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