The smell of sugar cookies baking hits different in Decemberwarm, buttery, with just a hint of vanilla that wraps around your whole house like a fuzzy blanket. These ingredient cookie cups are little bites of holiday joy that come together in almost no time. They’re trending right now because they’re adorably festive, ridiculously easy, and every single one disappears fast.
You only need three things: sugar cookie dough, mini muffin pans, and a creamy filling (peanut butter, Nutella, sprinkles… you name it). The dough turns golden at the edges, soft in the center, and it holds its shape like a dream. No rolling, no chilling, no cookie cuttersjust scoop, press, bake. If you’re looking for easy christmas cookie recipes simple enough for a last-minute exchange or baking day with little helpers, this one delivers.
I started making these back in 2020 when we swapped our usual cookie swap for something quick and porch-drop friendly. My niece, four at the time, called them “candy cups with hats” and insisted on adding red and green M&Msadorable chaos. The key trick? Press the dough down while still warm so the cups form a nice well for toppings. With my background in sourcing and testing easy bakes, this one’s become a go-to for fast, festive success.
Yesica Andrews
Ingredient Cookie Cups Quick Delicious Treats
These easy ingredient cookie cups are a perfect quick treat that everyone will love. A fantastic option for easy christmas cookie recipes simple enough for cookie ideas for kids. Perfect for simple holiday baking or anytime you want a sweet snack with minimal effort.
1 package 24 count refrigerated ready-to-bake cookie dough squares any flavor (see note)
24 candies such as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Junior Mints Hershey’s Kisses or Rolos
Method
Set your oven to 350°F and lightly grease your mini muffin tin with nonstick spray.
Place a single cookie dough square into each muffin cup and bake for about 12 to 14 minutes until they turn golden.
Right after removing from oven, gently press an unwrapped candy into the center of each warm cookie cup.
Let the cookie cups fully cool before carefully taking them out of the pan.
Keep stored in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze to enjoy later.
Notes
Use any flavor of refrigerated cookie dough squares you prefer. Store cookie cups airtight for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.
Why You’ll Love These Ingredient Cookie Cups
These cookie cups aren’t just adorablethey’re the ultimate holiday shortcut. Here’s why they’ll become your go-to for festive treats:
Extremely easy recipes: Only two ingredients and zero stressready in under 20 minutes!
Perfect for all ages: Whether it’s kid-friendly Christmas baking or sneaking a snack yourself, these satisfy any sweet tooth.
Customizable: Use your favorite cookie dough and candies to make each batch truly yours.
No fancy tools needed: Just a mini muffin pan and nonstick sprayno cutters, no chilling, no rolling!
Whether you’re diving into easy Christmas exchange cookies, adding candy cups for the cookie swap, or looking for cookie ideas for kids, this recipe makes holiday baking feel like a breeze.
Gather Your Two Ingredients
It’s hard to believe such a festive result comes with just two simple ingredients:
1 package of 24-count refrigerated ready-to-bake cookie dough squares: Use any flavor you lovesugar, chocolate chip, peanut butter, or even something festive like gingerbread!
Candies (like Reese’s, Junior Mints, Hershey’s Kisses, or Rolos): Choose your favorite for a sweet surprise in the center.
Pro Tip: Match the candy to the dough for fun flavor combospeanut butter dough with Reese’s, or sugar cookie dough with Kisses for a crowd favorite.
Ingredient
Amount
Notes
Cookie Dough
1 package (24 squares)
Any refrigerated dough flavor works.
Candies
24 pieces
Unwrap while the cups bake to save time!
How to Make Your Cookie Cups
If you’re a fan of extremely easy recipes, this step-by-step guide shows you how simple Christmas treats baking can be:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray your mini muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Place one cookie dough square into each muffin cavityit’s okay if they look snug!
Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and puff up just slightly.
Once they’re out of the oven, press a candy into the center of each cup while still warm. This creates the perfect “well” to hold the candy securely.
Let cookie cups cool completely before removing, so they firm up and release easily from the pan.
Pro Tip: If the centers rise a bit too high while baking, gently press them down with a spoon as they come out of the oven. This makes room for your candy!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Because these cups are so quick to make, they’re just as easy to store or prep ahead:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, perfect for grabbing on the go.
Freezer-Friendly: Freeze pre-made cookie cups (without candy) for up to a month. Add the candy after defrosting and reheating for fresh results.
Pro Tip: Stack cookie cups with parchment paper in between layers to keep them intact during storage.
Storage Method
How Long?
Best For
Airtight Container
Up to 3 days
Quick snacks or holiday platters.
Freezer
Up to 1 month
Big batches for exchanges or parties.
Expert Says
Using high-quality butter and properly chilling the dough is key for perfect INGREDIENT COOKIE CUPS. The fat solidifies during baking, helping the cups hold their shape while creating a tender texture. This technique also enhances flavor development through slow sugar caramelization.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Perfecting My Ingredient Cookie Cups
It took several attempts to get these Ingredient Cookie Cups just rightsometimes the dough was too crumbly, other times too soft. I learned to balance the textures and flavors carefully, and today’s recipe reflects all those little lessons. This recipe is the result of real kitchen trials and familiar weekend baking sessions with my family.
FAQs ( Ingredient Cookie Cups )
Can I use other types of cookie dough for these cups?
Yes, you can use other cookie doughs, but sugar cookie dough works best for holding the cup shape during baking. Doughs with high butter content may spread too much. For best results, slightly chill the dough before shaping to maintain structure throughout the bake.
How do I prevent the cups from burning or overcooking?
Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature and bake on the middle rack. Keep an eye on the edges; removing them as soon as golden avoids burning. Using a dark nonstick pan can cause faster browning, so adjust temperature down 25 degrees if needed.
Can I make these cups ahead of time and store them?
Absolutely, these cookie cups can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them tightly wrapped; thaw before filling. This makes them a convenient choice for easy Christmas treat baking or cookie exchanges.
What are some filling ideas for the cups?
Fill these cups with pudding, mousse, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for a versatile dessert. You can also use frosting or nut butter for a kid-friendly treat. Choose fillings that complement the sweetness without making the cup soggy for the best texture.
How do I get the cups to hold their shape during baking?
Press the dough firmly into a greased mini muffin pan and chill for 10-15 minutes before baking. This prevents excessive spreading and helps maintain the cup shape. Baking at the right temperature allows the edges to set quickly, holding the structure intact.
Conclusion
You’ll love how these ingredient cookie cups come together in just minuteswarm, buttery edges hugging melty centers that fill your kitchen with that cozy baked-good aroma. Simple, snap-together baking that turns out tender, festive, and irresistible every single time.
A little secret I picked up from my aunt’s kitchen: don’t be shy about mixing up candies or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a fun twist. These cookie cups store well in an airtight container, and reheating gently brings back that fresh-baked feeling like magic. Easy swaps and simple storage make this go-to recipe a holiday baking win.
I’d love to see your creationsdid this recipe remind you of holiday treats from your childhood? Snap a photo, share your baking stories, or save this for your next kitchen adventure. Baking is better when it’s shared, and these cookie cups are pure joy for family and friends alike.
