Unicorn Poop Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and Festive: The bright, rainbow-colored swirls make these cookies visually appealing and perfect for parties.
• Delicious Flavor: A soft, chewy texture with a hint of vanilla and almond extract.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Gel food coloring (assorted colors)
• Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)

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

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add Egg and Extracts: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix Together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Color the Dough

1. Divide Dough: Split the dough evenly into separate bowls, depending on how many colors you wish to use.
2. Add Food Coloring: Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each portion, mixing until the desired color is achieved.

Step 4: Form the Cookies

1. Create Ropes: On a lightly floured surface, roll each colored dough portion into long ropes of equal length.
2. Assemble Swirls: Place the colored ropes side by side and gently twist them together. Roll the twisted dough into a spiral shape to resemble a unicorn poop.
3. Add Decorations: If desired, sprinkle edible glitter or colorful sprinkles on top of each cookie.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Bake Cookies: Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 16 cookies
• Preparation Time: 1 hour (including chilling time)
• Baking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Substitute almond extract with lemon or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a chicken egg.

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, but gel food coloring provides more vibrant colors without altering the dough’s consistency.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking, but if you’re short on time, you can bake them immediately with slightly less defined swirls.

Can I add flavors to each colored dough portion?

Absolutely! Adding different extracts to each color can create a fun, multi-flavored cookie.

What if I don’t have edible glitter?

The cookies will still look festive with just the colorful dough and sprinkles.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

How can I ensure the colors don’t mix too much?

Handle the dough gently when twisting the colors together to maintain distinct swirls.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Yes, natural food colorings are an option, though the colors may be less vibrant.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Ensure your butter isn’t too soft, and chilling the dough can help prevent spreading.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?

Mix-ins can interfere with the dough’s texture and the swirl effect, so they’re not recommended for this recipe.

Are these cookies suitable for mailing?

Yes, they hold up well and make for a delightful gift.

Conclusion

Unicorn Poop Cookies are a delightful and whimsical treat that adds a splash of color and fun to any event. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, they’re sure to bring smiles to faces of all ages. Enjoy baking and sharing these magical cookies!

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