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.
These sweets always bring joy at family gatherings and spark creativity with colorful decorations.
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 Making these cookies has become a cherished tradition that brings everyone in my family together in the kitchen.
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 per cookie
Save These mermaid tail sweets are sure to dazzle your guests and make your celebrations extra special.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best way to color the buttercream?
Gel food coloring works best for vibrant hues without altering the buttercream's consistency. Use small amounts and mix until evenly blended.
- → How can I keep the sugar cookies soft?
Store cookies in an airtight container once cooled, and avoid overbaking to maintain tender, soft texture.
- → What alternatives exist for decorating the mermaid tails?
Edible shimmer dust, candy pearls, and sprinkles offer ideal options to achieve a sparkly, festive look.
- → Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before rolling and cutting to preserve freshness and improve texture.
- → What tips improve piping the buttercream designs?
Use star or petal piping tips for detailed scales and tail textures, pipe onto completely cooled cookies for clean results.