If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the buttery, tender chew of a classic sugar cookie with the festive crunch of a crumble topping and those joyful multicolored sprinkles, you’re in for a treat with this Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe. It’s the perfect way to bring a little extra magic to your dessert table, whether you enjoy it by itself or as the foundation for a show-stopping cheesecake. This recipe blends simple ingredients into something truly special, creating a texture play of soft base and crumbly topping with bursts of sprinkle happiness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe plays an essential role—from the rich butter that gives tenderness to the dough, to the vanilla that deepens the flavor, and the colorful sprinkles that bring festive joy. They’re simple, pantry-friendly staples that come together beautifully to create something extra special.
- All-purpose flour (3.25 cups): The backbone of the dough, providing structure while keeping the base soft.
- Salt (1 tsp total): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the dough perfectly.
- Baking soda (½ tsp): Gives just a bit of lift to keep the base light and tender.
- Unsalted butter (1.25 cups, room temperature): Adds richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cane sugar (2 cups): Sweetens each layer while contributing to the perfect crumb and slight caramelization.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Infuses warm, fragrant notes that enhance every bite.
- Large egg + egg yolk (1 egg and 1 yolk, room temperature): Bind the dough and add tenderness.
- Milk (5 tbsp): Helps create moist, clumpy crumble topping.
- Christmas sprinkles (â…“ cup): For that iconic festive crunch and colorful pop that make every bite joyful.
How to Make Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Sugar Cookie Base (Crust)
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepping a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick spray and parchment paper lining. Whisk together 2 cups of flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Then, in a mixer, cream ¾ cup softened butter together with ½ cup cane sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in one large egg and one teaspoon of vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until a soft dough is just coming together. Press this dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn a gentle golden shade. Let your cookie base cool completely on a wire rack before moving on.
Step 2: Prepare Sugar Cookie Crumble/Topping
While the base cools, mix together the remaining 1.25 cups flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1.5 cups cane sugar in a separate bowl. Add in the remaining ½ cup melted butter, one egg yolk, one teaspoon vanilla, and 5 tablespoons of milk. Use a fork to mix until moisture causes the ingredients to clump together into crumbly clusters. Spread this crumble evenly across a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake it in the same 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden and crisp. Once cooled, break the crumble into irregular, crunchy pieces that will add delightful texture atop your cookie base.
Step 3: Assemble and Garnish
Once your sugar cookie base is completely cool, generously sprinkle the crumble pieces over the top. Add â…“ cup of your favorite Christmas sprinkles on top for that extra festive touch and a playful burst of color and crunch. This step transforms your simple cookie into a joyful masterpiece.
Step 4: Serve
This Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe is delicious as a standalone treat—cut into wedges and enjoy the wonderful combination of tender cookie and crunchy topping. If you want to get creative, use it as a foundational layer for a stunning sugar cookie cheesecake by adding your preferred cheesecake filling on top (recipe for filling not included here). Either way, it’s a sure winner that brings a smile every time.
How to Serve Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your dessert by adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate over the crumble and sprinkles. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also bring an elegant contrast of freshness and creaminess, perfectly balancing the cookie’s sweetness and texture.
Side Dishes
This sugar cookie base pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of rich hot cocoa. These classic accompaniments amplify the cozy, homestyle vibe and are perfect for sharing with loved ones during chilly evenings or holiday gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this sugar cookie base with crumble and sprinkles as individual mini tarts by using a muffin tin for the base. Alternatively, cut it into bite-sized squares and present on a festive platter for parties, making it easy for guests to grab and go. You could even layer the crumble into parfait glasses with creamy cheesecake filling and fruit for an elegant, layered dessert option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sugar cookie base with crumble and sprinkles can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep the container sealed tightly to maintain the crumble’s crispiness and the base’s soft texture for as long as possible.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or keep leftovers longer, wrap the entire base tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving; the crumble topping will retain much of its delightful texture.
Reheating
To reheat, place the portion on a baking sheet in a preheated 300°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes to revive the golden edges and warm the crumble. Avoid microwave reheating as it can make the crumble soggy.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the additional salt called for in the recipe to avoid over-salting your sugar cookie base and crumble.
Do the sprinkles melt during baking?
In this recipe, sprinkles are added after baking, so they maintain their crunch and vibrant colors. If you add sprinkles before baking, they may melt or spread, altering the look.
Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Absolutely! Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk work well in the crumble topping without compromising taste or texture.
How long does the crumble topping stay crispy?
The crumble stays best if stored airtight and consumed within a few days. Exposure to humidity can soften those delightful crunchy bits.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a recipe that brings together buttery softness, crumbly delight, and playful sprinkle fun all in one, this Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s simple enough to whip up any day, yet special enough to impress your guests or yourself. I truly can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your favorite dessert moments.
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Sugar Cookie Base with Crumble and Sprinkles Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours including cooling time
- Yield: 1 9-inch sugar cookie base with crumble topping, serves 8
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe features a delightful sugar cookie base and crumble designed as a perfect foundation and topping for cheesecakes or enjoyed on its own. The sugar cookie base is tender and buttery, baked to a light golden perfection, while the crumble topping adds a sweet, slightly crunchy texture enhanced with festive Christmas sprinkles. The combination provides a versatile and delicious canvas for various desserts.
Ingredients
Sugar Cookie Base
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Sugar Cookie Crumble/Topping
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- 1.5 cups Regenerative Organic Certified® Cane Sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg yolk, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 5 tbsp milk
Garnish
- â…“ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies)
Instructions
- Prepare Sugar Cookie Base (Crust): Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by spraying it with cooking spray and lining the bottom with parchment paper. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In a mixer, cream ¾ cup softened butter and ½ cup cane sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for 1 to 2 minutes. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until a soft dough forms; be careful not to overmix. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, then bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Sugar Cookie Crumble/Topping: While the base is baking, in a separate bowl combine 1.25 cups flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1.5 cups cane sugar. Add in ½ cup melted butter, 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 5 tablespoons milk. Mix using a fork until moist clumps form. Spread this crumble mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the same 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely, then break it into smaller, irregular pieces to create the crumble topping.
- Assemble and Garnish: Once the sugar cookie base has completely cooled, sprinkle the prepared sugar cookie crumble generously over the base. Garnish by evenly scattering â…“ cup of festive Christmas sprinkles (jimmies) over the crumble for an appealing look and added flavor.
- Serve: Serve the sugar cookie base topped with crumble and sprinkles as a delicious standalone dessert. Alternatively, use this as the foundational sugar cookie elements for a larger Sugar Cookie Cheesecake by adding a separate cheesecake filling, which is not included in this recipe.
Notes
- Ensure all eggs and butter are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- Do not overmix the dough to prevent tough cookies.
- The crumble topping can be prepared in advance and stored airtight for up to 3 days.
- Use a springform pan to easily remove the cookie base without damaging it.
- For a more festive look, feel free to adjust the sprinkles to match any holiday or occasion.
