Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe is the ultimate dessert for your 4th of July celebrations! This cake combines the classic flavors of sugar cookies with festive M&Ms and sprinkles, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Easy to make and visually stunning, this recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or simply indulging at home. The vibrant colors and delicious taste will surely impress your friends and family!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun and Festive: This cake is perfect for celebrating the 4th of July with its colorful M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery sugar cookie and creamy frosting creates a delightful flavor that everyone loves.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a cake or cut it into fun shapes for parties; it’s versatile for any gathering.
- Perfectly Soft Texture: Baking it just right ensures a soft, chewy inside that pairs beautifully with the frosting.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe successful, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- 9” round cake pan
- Parchment paper or foil
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Piping bag or ziplock bag (with a 1M tip)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
- Hand or stand mixer: Makes beating butter and sugar quick and easy, ensuring a creamy texture.
- 9” round cake pan: The perfect size for baking your cookie cake evenly.
- Piping bag or ziplock bag: Ideal for decorating the cake with frosting precisely.
Ingredients
Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake is the perfect 4th of July desserts! Add M&Ms and sprinkles to my perfect sugar cookie recipe and bake it in a cake pan!
Ingredients:
– ¾ cup (170g) unsalted Challenge Butter (softened)
– ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
– 2 cups (248g) all purpose flour
– 1 cup M&Ms (Use patriotic M&Ms for the 4th of July)
– ½ cup “jimmie” sprinkles (use red and white for the 4th of July)
– 3 tablespoons (38g) unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 ½ cups (170g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ⅙ teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) heavy whipping cream or milk
How to Make Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9” round cake pan with foil and spray it generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Cake
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar using either a hand or stand mixer until creamy.
- Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add baking soda, salt, cream of tartar, and then slowly mix in all-purpose flour until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in M&Ms and jimmie sprinkles into the batter.
Step 3: Bake Your Cake
- Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. For extra fun, press additional M&Ms on top before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 19–22 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want light golden edges—better to underbake slightly than overbake!
- Allow it to cool completely before moving on to frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- In another bowl, beat softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until crumbly. Then mix in salt and vanilla extract.
- Add one tablespoon of heavy whipping cream. Beat until smooth. If needed, add more cream a teaspoon at a time until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost Your Cake
Using a piping bag fitted with a 1M tip or simply using a ziplock bag without a tip, decorate your cooled cookie cake with frosting. Top off with additional sprinkles and M&Ms for that festive touch!
Step 6: Store Your Treats
Store any leftovers loosely covered at room temperature for up to two days. Enjoy this delightful Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake as part of your summer celebrations!
How to Serve Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a 4th of July party or simply celebrating summer, these serving suggestions will make your dessert shine.
Slice and Serve
- Serve slices of the cookie cake on individual plates for a personal touch.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an indulgent pairing.
Festive Toppings
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce for extra sweetness.
- Top with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color.
Celebration Platter
- Arrange slices on a large platter and decorate with more sprinkles.
- Include small cups of whipped cream for guests to add as they wish.
Mini Portions
- Cut the cookie cake into small squares for bite-sized treats.
- Use festive cupcake liners to serve them at parties.
Pair with Drinks
- Serve alongside lemonade or iced tea to refresh your guests.
- For adults, a light sparkling wine can complement the sweetness nicely.
How to Perfect Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
To ensure your Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps achieve a creamy batter.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
- Check doneness carefully: Look for light golden edges when baking. It’s better to underbake slightly than overbake.
- Cool completely before frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully; this prevents the frosting from melting off.
- Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap M&Ms for other candies or nuts based on preference and seasonality.
- Store properly: Keep it loosely covered at room temperature for maximum freshness without sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a DIY sundae station where guests can build their own sundaes using ice cream, toppings, and sauces.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats add elegance and flavor, making them perfect alongside the cookie cake.
- Patriotic Jello Cups: Layered red, white, and blue jello cups make for a festive addition that’s easy to prepare.
- Lemonade Pitcher: A cold lemonade pitcher keeps everyone refreshed while balancing out the sweetness of dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses creates an interesting contrast and can be savored between bites of cookie cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking the Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake, avoiding common errors can help ensure a perfect dessert. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with sugar, resulting in a dense cake. Always use softened butter for the best texture.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain a soft texture.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurement.
- Ignoring baking time: Baking too long can dry out the cake. Keep an eye on it and remove it when the edges are light brown for optimal moisture.
- Skipping cooling time: Frosting a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt. Allow your cookie cake to cool completely before adding frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- It will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for longer storage.
- The cookie cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the slice on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat and cover with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I customize my Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add different types of candies or sprinkles based on your preference. Chocolate chips or nuts can also be great additions.
How do I make my Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake more colorful?
Using red, white, and blue sprinkles not only enhances appearance but also makes your dessert festive for occasions like the 4th of July.
What if I don’t have cream of tartar?
If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder, though this might slightly change the texture.
How should I store the Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake?
The best way is to keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate it if you need longer storage.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute in this Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe without losing much of its deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
The Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe is not only festive but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it with different candies and colors, making it perfect for birthdays or holidays. Don’t hesitate to try this delightful dessert; your friends and family will love it!
Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake
Experience a burst of festive flavor with this Fireworks Sugar Cookie Cake, the ultimate dessert for your 4th of July celebrations! This delightful cake blends the classic taste of sugar cookies with colorful M&Ms and sprinkles, creating a visually stunning treat that is easy to make and perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a summer evening at home, this cookie cake will impress your friends and family with its vibrant colors and delicious buttery flavor.
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup M&Ms (patriotic colors for the occasion)
- ½ cup jimmie sprinkles (red and white)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch round cake pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually incorporate baking soda, salt, cream of tartar, and flour until combined. Fold in M&Ms and sprinkles.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan, pressing evenly. Optional: add more M&Ms on top.
- Bake for 19–22 minutes until edges are light golden. Let cool completely.
- Prepare frosting by beating softened butter until smooth; gradually mix in powdered sugar, salt, vanilla, and heavy cream until spreadable.
- Frost the cooled cake and decorate with more sprinkles and M&Ms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Room temperature ingredients ensure a creamy batter. Avoid overmixing to maintain soft texture. Feel free to customize with different candies or nuts based on preference.
