Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies

Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy and comfort with each bite. Bursting with color and flavor, these cookies are not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for family gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet indulgence on a regular day. The chewy, buttery texture combined with fun, festive sprinkles will transport you back to childhood, evoking nostalgia and happiness. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to create your very own batch of these irresistible cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, you can whip up a batch in no time. The addition of sprinkles adds a unique twist, making these cookies perfect for celebrations or casual snacks. They bake to golden perfection with a delightful crisp around the edges and a soft, chewy center, ensuring everyone will enjoy them. Plus, the fun pan-banging method results in cookies that are aesthetically pleasing and deliciously textured, adding to the excitement of baking!

Ingredients

For Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies, you will need:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: This creamy butter will provide a rich flavor and lovely texture.
1/4 cup (50 g) packed light brown sugar: These small amounts of sugar add a hint of caramel sweetness.
3/4 tsp kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar, divided: This sugar makes the cookies perfectly sweet while helping them to get that lovely golden color.
1 large egg, room temperature: Adds moisture and acts as a binding agent.
1 large egg yolk, room temperature: Ensures extra tenderness and a rich texture.
2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet, warm aroma that elevates the flavors.
1/2 tsp baking soda: This leavening agent will help the cookies rise perfectly.
2 1/2 cups (300 g) all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie, providing structure.
1/2 cup plus 2 Tbsp holiday sprinkles: Brightens up the cookies, making them festive and fun!

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by arranging a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures an even bake for your cookies.
Mix the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer on medium-high speed to beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, kosher salt, and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and creamy – this should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg, egg yolk, and pure vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Beat until just combined, using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Blend in Baking Soda: Add in the baking soda, blending until fully incorporated into the mix.
Incorporate Flour: Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until just a few streaks of flour remain visible. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Fold in the Sprinkles: Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Prepare for Baking: Put the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar into a small shallow bowl. Using a 1/4-cup scoop or measuring cup, scoop the cookie dough and roll it into balls between your palms. Roll four of these balls in the granulated sugar and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure to space them apart.
Let the Dough Rest: Allow the remaining dough balls to sit at room temperature until you’re ready to bake the next batch.
Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies for about 7 minutes. At this point, open the oven door, lift the sheet 2 inches from the rack, and firmly bang the pan three times on the rack. This step helps create a beautiful texture.
Rotate the Pan: Rotate the baking sheet 180 degrees, put it back on the rack, and close the oven door. Continue baking the cookies for an additional 2 minutes.
Repeat the Process: Repeat the banging and rotating process one to two more times until the cookies have a lovely golden brown color on their edges and bottom. The total baking time will be around 11 to 13 minutes.
Cool and Repeat: Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool. Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough and a fresh parchment-lined baking sheet.

Tips & Tricks

Sifting Flour: For a lighter texture, you can sift the flour before measuring it, ensuring your cookies are fluffy and soft.
Chill the Dough: If you prefer thicker cookies, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help.
Cookie Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for a twist on the classic recipe.
Texture Check: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. You want them to be golden on the edges but slightly soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies are a delightful treat on their own, but they pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of coffee. These cookies are perfect for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet touch. You can serve them alongside ice cream for an indulgent dessert or pack them as a delightful snack for lunch boxes.

Nutritional Information

These cookies are generous in flavor and texture, but moderation is key. Each cookie contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the size and any added ingredients. They typically provide:

Calories: 160 per cookie
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrates: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 1g

It’s essential to enjoy these cookies as a part of a balanced diet, incorporating healthy foods alongside your sweet indulgences.

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep your Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place individual cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. Reheat frozen cookies in a warm oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

For variations, experiment with different types of sprinkles, using seasonal colors for holidays or themed events. You can also substitute half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

We invite you to try making these delightful Pan-Banging Confetti Cookies in your kitchen! With their vibrant colors and irresistible taste, they’re bound to bring a smile to your face and the faces of those you share them with. Don’t forget to share your baking experience and any creative twists you put on the recipe!

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for unsalted butter, but the flavor and texture may vary slightly. Using butter typically offers a richer taste.

2. What if I do not have instant-access to room temperature eggs?

If you don’t have room temperature eggs, you can place cold eggs in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes to quickly bring them to the desired temperature.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that the mixture includes a binding agent for the best results!

4. How can I make these cookies chewier?

To enhance the chewiness, consider using more brown sugar and slightly reducing the granulated sugar. Also, avoid overbaking them!

5. Can I add other mix-ins to the dough?

Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for a personalized touch that enhances the flavor and texture.