Sugar Cookie Golden Milk: Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of freshly baked sugar cookies swirled into a creamy, soothing beverage. Sounds divine, doesn’t it? This isn’t just a drink; it’s a hug in a mug, perfect for chilly evenings or when you simply need a little self-care.
Golden milk, traditionally known as Haldi Doodh, has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Revered for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this ancient elixir typically features turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. But we’re taking it to a whole new level by infusing it with the irresistible essence of sugar cookies!
What makes this Sugar Cookie Golden Milk so special? It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and wellness. The familiar sweetness and buttery notes of sugar cookies evoke childhood memories and feelings of pure joy. Combined with the earthy warmth of turmeric and the gentle spice of ginger, it creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. People adore this drink because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly comforting and easy to make. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes both body and soul. So, ditch the sugary treats and embrace this healthier, equally satisfying alternative. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients:
- For the Sugar Cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely flavor!)
- For the Golden Milk:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy, I prefer oat milk!)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, but highly recommended)
- Pinch of black pepper (essential for turmeric absorption!)
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee (optional, for extra richness)
- For Decorating (Optional):
- Royal icing (recipe follows)
- Sprinkles
- For Royal Icing (Optional):
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5-7 tablespoons warm water
- Food coloring (gel or liquid)
Making the Sugar Cookies:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s crucial for a tender cookie.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). Make sure everything is well combined.
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Divide and Chill Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the gluten to relax and the butter to firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Roll Out and Cut Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
- Bake Cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Golden Milk:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and black pepper.
- Heat Gently: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it is warm but not boiling. Do not let it boil!
- Add Sweetener and Fat (Optional): Remove from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup to taste. If using, stir in the coconut oil or ghee for extra richness.
- Whisk or Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, you can whisk the golden milk vigorously or blend it in a blender. This helps to incorporate the spices and create a frothy drink.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the golden milk into mugs and serve immediately.
Making the Royal Icing (Optional):
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and meringue powder. Sifting the powdered sugar is important to prevent lumps in your icing.
- Add Water: Gradually add the warm water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing on low speed with an electric mixer until a smooth icing forms. The consistency should be similar to that of school glue.
- Adjust Consistency: If the icing is too thick, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Color the Icing: Divide the icing into separate bowls, depending on how many colors you want to use. Add food coloring, a drop at a time, until you reach your desired shade. Mix well.
- Decorate Cookies: Transfer the icing to piping bags or squeeze bottles. Decorate the cooled sugar cookies as desired. You can use different tips for different effects.
- Let Icing Set: Allow the icing to set completely before storing the cookies. This usually takes several hours.
Assembling and Serving:
- Decorate Cookies (if desired): If you made royal icing, now is the time to decorate your cooled sugar cookies. Get creative with your designs!
- Prepare Golden Milk: Follow the steps above to prepare your golden milk.
- Serve Together: Serve the sugar cookies alongside the warm golden milk. The sweetness of the cookies pairs perfectly with the warmth and spice of the golden milk.
- Enjoy! Take a moment to savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures. This is a perfect treat for a cozy night in.
Tips and Variations:
- Cookie Dough Variations: You can add different extracts to the cookie dough, such as lemon extract or orange extract, for a different flavor profile. You can also add sprinkles or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
- Golden Milk Variations: For a spicier golden milk, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add other spices, such as nutmeg or cloves. For a creamier golden milk, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based butter for the cookies and plant-based milk for the golden milk. Make sure your honey substitute is also vegan-friendly (maple syrup is a great option).
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may need to add a little xanthan gum to help bind the dough.
- Storage: Store the sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Store the golden milk in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sugar cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out and baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.
- Royal Icing Tips: To prevent the royal icing from hardening too quickly, cover the bowl with a damp cloth while you’re working with it. If the icing becomes too thick, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
- Cookie Cutter Shapes: Feel free to use any cookie cutter shapes you like! Holiday-themed shapes are always fun.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of spices in the golden milk to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in the golden milk to your liking.
Troubleshooting:
- Cookies Spreading Too Much: If your cookies are spreading too much during baking, make sure your butter is cold enough and that you haven’t overmixed the dough. You can also try chilling the cut-out cookies in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Cookies Too Tough: If your cookies are too tough, you may have overmixed the dough. Be careful not to overmix when adding the dry ingredients.
- Royal Icing Too Thin: If your royal icing is too thin, add a little more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Royal Icing Too Thick: If your royal icing is too
Conclusion:
This Sugar Cookie Golden Milk isn’t just a drink; it’s a warm hug in a mug, a comforting ritual, and a delightful treat all rolled into one. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it perfectly blends the nostalgic flavors of sugar cookies with the soothing and healthful properties of golden milk. It’s a unique and unexpected combination that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling incredibly cozy. The subtle sweetness, the warm spices, and the creamy texture create an experience that’s both indulgent and nourishing. Think of it as your new go-to beverage for chilly evenings, a delightful alternative to your usual bedtime tea, or even a festive treat to share with friends and family during the holidays. It’s incredibly versatile and easily adaptable to your personal preferences. Serving Suggestions and Variations: For a truly decadent experience, top your Sugar Cookie Golden Milk with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed sugar cookies. You could also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to enhance the sugar cookie flavor even further. Looking for a vegan option? Simply substitute the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based alternative, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety to control the overall sweetness of the drink. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener. For a chilled version, let the golden milk cool completely and then pour it over ice. This makes a refreshing and delicious treat on a hot day. You can even blend it with ice for a creamy and satisfying smoothie. Another fun variation is to add a shot of espresso for a Sugar Cookie Golden Milk latte. This is the perfect way to kickstart your morning or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up. The combination of coffee and sugar cookie flavor is surprisingly delicious and energizing. If you’re feeling creative, you can even use this Sugar Cookie Golden Milk as a base for other desserts. Try soaking ladyfingers in it for a unique twist on tiramisu, or use it to make a creamy and flavorful rice pudding. The possibilities are endless! I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of the holidays year-round. The warm spices and comforting sweetness make it the perfect drink for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your favorite cozy sweater, and get ready to experience the magic of Sugar Cookie Golden Milk. I promise you won’t be disappointed. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you’ve tried. Did you add a special spice? Did you use a different type of milk? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating delicious and inspiring recipes. Don’t forget to snap a photo of your creation and tag me on social media! I can’t wait to see your beautiful Sugar Cookie Golden Milk creations. Happy sipping! Print
Sugar Cookie Golden Milk: A Delicious and Healthy Recipe
- Total Time: 158 minutes
- Yield: 24–36 cookies, 2 servings 1x
Description
Cozy up with these delicious sugar cookies and a warm mug of golden milk. A perfect treat for a chilly evening!
Ingredients
Scale- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or ghee (optional)
- Royal icing (recipe follows)
- Sprinkles
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 5–7 tablespoons warm water
- Food coloring (gel or liquid)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
- Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, combine the milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), and black pepper.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it is warm but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup to taste. If using, stir in the coconut oil or ghee for extra richness.
- For a smoother texture, you can whisk the golden milk vigorously or blend it in a blender.
- Pour the golden milk into mugs and serve immediately.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and meringue powder.
- Gradually add the warm water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing on low speed with an electric mixer until a smooth icing forms.
- If the icing is too thick, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.
- Divide the icing into separate bowls, depending on how many colors you want to use. Add food coloring, a drop at a time, until you reach your desired shade. Mix well.
- Transfer the icing to piping bags or squeeze bottles. Decorate the cooled sugar cookies as desired.
- Allow the icing to set completely before storing the cookies. This usually takes several hours.
- If you made royal icing, now is the time to decorate your cooled sugar cookies. Get creative with your designs!
- Follow the steps above to prepare your golden milk.
- Serve the sugar cookies alongside the warm golden milk. The sweetness of the cookies pairs perfectly with the warmth and spice of the golden milk.
- Take a moment to savor the delicious combination of flavors and textures. This is a perfect treat for a cozy night in.
Notes
- Cookie Dough Variations: You can add different extracts to the cookie dough, such as lemon extract or orange extract, for a different flavor profile. You can also add sprinkles or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
- Golden Milk Variations: For a spicier golden milk, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add other spices, such as nutmeg or cloves. For a creamier golden milk, use full-fat coconut milk.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based butter for the cookies and plant-based milk for the golden milk. Make sure your honey substitute is also vegan-friendly (maple syrup is a great option).
- Gluten-Free Option: To make the cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You may need to add a little xanthan gum to help bind the dough.
- Storage: Store the sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Store the golden milk in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sugar cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out and baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months.
- Royal Icing Tips: To prevent the royal icing from hardening too quickly, cover the bowl with a damp cloth while you’re working with it. If the icing becomes too thick, add a little more water, a teaspoon at a time.
- Cookie Cutter Shapes: Feel free to use any cookie cutter shapes you like! Holiday-themed shapes are always fun.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of spices in the golden milk to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup in the golden milk to your liking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
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