Polar Bear Cookies

These delightful Polar Bear Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their soft, chewy texture and charming buttercream frosting, they bring joy to festive gatherings or cozy winter days at home. Not only are these cookies visually appealing, but they’re also incredibly delicious, making them a standout choice for holiday cookie trays or casual snacking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these adorable cookies that are sure to warm hearts!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cute Presentation: These cookies resemble friendly polar bears, making them a fun addition to any dessert table.
• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, allowing bakers of all skill levels to create these treats without stress.
• Deliciously Soft Texture: Each bite offers a soft and chewy cookie experience that pairs perfectly with the creamy frosting.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a holiday party or a winter gathering, these cookies fit right in and delight every guest.
• Homemade Buttercream Frosting: The rich buttercream adds a homemade touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Polar Bear Cookies, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugar blend seamlessly for a light and fluffy batter.
• Cookie sheets: A good quality cookie sheet helps achieve even baking, ensuring consistent cookie texture.
• Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around your cookies after baking.

Ingredients

These adorable buttercream polar bear cookies are incredibly soft and chewy and are topped with the most delicious homemade buttercream frosting.

For the Cookie Dough

• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature (170g)
• 1/2 cup or 4 oz. full fat cream cheese, room temp (113g)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
• 1 large egg, room temperature (56g)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (8g)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch (8g)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder (2g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (226g)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (12g)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (454g or 1 lb. box)
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature (60g)

For Decoration

• 1 cup coarse sanding sugar
• 30 large chocolate chips – I used Ghirardelli dark chocolate chips
• Round black sprinkles
• Round red or pink sprinkles

How to Make Polar Bear Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
2. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
3. Remove from oven and let cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat together unsalted butter with powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add in vanilla extract, salt, and heavy whipping cream; beat until fluffy.

Step 5: Decorate Your Polar Bear Cookies

1. Once cooled, spread a layer of buttercream frosting on each cookie.
2. Use sanding sugar for snow-like sparkle on top of each frosted cookie.
3. Place chocolate chips for eyes and use sprinkles for noses to complete your cute polar bear look.

Your Polar Bear Cookies are now ready! Serve them at your next gathering or enjoy them as a special treat at home!

How to Serve Polar Bear Cookies

Polar Bear Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With Hot Chocolate

• Serve your Polar Bear Cookies alongside a warm mug of hot chocolate. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the buttery cookies.

At Holiday Parties

• Present these adorable cookies on a festive platter during holiday parties. Their cute appearance will make them a hit among guests of all ages.

As Lunchbox Treats

• Pack Polar Bear Cookies in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, adding a fun touch to any meal.

With Ice Cream

• Enjoy these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert. The combination of textures is simply divine!

On Winter Movie Nights

• Bring out the Polar Bear Cookies during winter movie nights. They make the perfect snack while snuggling up with loved ones and enjoying your favorite films.

How to Perfect Polar Bear Cookies

To make sure your Polar Bear Cookies turn out just right, follow these simple tips for success.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Chill the dough – Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents spreading.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level your flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies that may not rise properly.
• Watch baking time closely – Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center when done.
• Decorate creatively – Use different colors of sprinkles or edible decorations to customize your Polar Bear Cookies for any occasion.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Polar Bear Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your delicious Polar Bear Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great ideas:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   Include a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar. The savory flavors complement the sweet cookies beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that balances indulgence with nutrition.

4. Nut Mix
   A mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with soft cookies.

5. Vegetable Crudités
   Fresh vegetables served with hummus create a healthy contrast, making it perfect for balanced snacking.

6. Coffee or Tea
   Serve hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea alongside the cookies for a warm and comforting treat experience.

7. Mini Cupcakes
   Offer mini cupcakes in complementary flavors such as vanilla or chocolate to satisfy all sweet cravings at once.

8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can build their own sundaes, creating endless combinations alongside those adorable cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Polar Bear Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream cheese can lead to a dense texture. Always let these ingredients warm up before mixing.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Overpacking flour can make your cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure accurately.
• Ignoring proper chilling time: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least an hour for better shape.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking for too long will result in hard cookies. Watch them closely and remove them when the edges are lightly golden.
• Forgetting to sift powdered sugar: Sifting helps eliminate lumps in your frosting. Always sift before adding it to ensure a smooth consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Polar Bear Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Polar Bear Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months; just make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating Polar Bear Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds until warm but not hot.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Polar Bear Cookies.

How do I make Polar Bear Cookies?

To make Polar Bear Cookies, follow the detailed recipe provided above, ensuring you use room temperature ingredients and chill the dough properly.

Can I customize Polar Bear Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like peppermint extract or mix in colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.

How do I store leftover Polar Bear Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer shelf life.

What is the best way to decorate Polar Bear Cookies?

Use homemade buttercream frosting and add chocolate chips and sprinkles for eyes and noses to create adorable polar bear faces.

Final Thoughts

Polar Bear Cookies are not only adorable but also incredibly versatile. Their soft and chewy texture combined with delicious buttercream makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to get creative with decorations or flavors that suit your taste!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Polar Bear Cookies

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 34 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the joy of baking with these Polar Bear Cookies, a delightful treat that captures the spirit of winter festivities. These soft and chewy cookies, adorned with creamy buttercream frosting, are not only adorable but also incredibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family get-togethers, these whimsical treats will charm both kids and adults alike. Their cute polar bear design makes them a fun addition to dessert tables, while their rich flavor ensures they’ll be a hit at every event.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp fine salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt (for frosting)
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream, room temperature
• 1 cup coarse sanding sugar for decoration
• 30 large chocolate chips for decoration
• Round black sprinkles for decoration
• Round red or pink sprinkles for decoration

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla; mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until combined.
4. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
5. Remove from oven and cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
6. For the frosting, beat butter with powdered sugar until smooth; add vanilla, salt, and heavy cream; beat until fluffy.
7. Decorate cooled cookies with frosting, coarse sanding sugar for sparkle, chocolate chips for eyes, and sprinkles for noses.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg