Save Whimsical, colorful treats inspired by the ocean, these mermaid tail sweets combine soft sugar cookies with shimmering buttercream and candy pearls—a magical dessert perfect for parties or special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the Sugar Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the Buttercream Frosting: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, Gel food coloring (teal, purple, pink, blue)
- For Decoration: Edible shimmer dust or glitter, Candy pearls or sprinkles
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut out mermaid tail shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Step 6:
- Place cookies on prepared sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Step 7:
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
- Step 8:
- Divide frosting into 3–4 bowls. Tint each with a different gel food coloring.
- Step 9:
- Using piping bags with star or petal tips, pipe colored buttercream onto cooled cookies to create mermaid tails.
- Step 10:
- Dust with edible shimmer and decorate with candy pearls or sprinkles as desired.
Save Required Tools
Mixing bowls, Electric mixer, Measuring cups and spoons, Rolling pin, Mermaid tail cookie cutter, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Piping bags and decorative tips, Cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter, milk). Contains food coloring&check for sensitivities. Always verify ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 10 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 2 g
Save This magical dessert is sure to enchant your guests and add whimsy to any celebration
Recipe FAQs
- → What makes the cookies soft and tender?
Using a good balance of butter and sugar along with gentle mixing ensures the dough creates soft, tender cookies after baking.
- → How can I achieve vibrant frosting colors?
Gel food coloring is ideal as it adds rich color without thinning the buttercream, allowing vivid ocean-inspired hues.
- → Can these sweets be prepared ahead of time?
Absolutely; the cookies can be baked in advance and frosted just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What is the purpose of edible shimmer dust?
Edible shimmer dust adds a sparkling, magical finish that enhances the oceanic theme by reflecting light beautifully.
- → Any tips for piping detailed decorations?
Using star or petal piping tips and consistent pressure helps create clean, textured tails that mimic scales and waves.