Save Pin
Turning traditional sugar cookies into playful holiday cookie pops brings a fresh and fun way to share sweetness during celebrations. These treats use simple refrigerated cookie dough combined with festive sprinkles and a popsicle stick to create something both adorable and easy to enjoy. Whether for Christmas or any special occasion, these cookie pops make grabbing dessert as simple as holding a stick.
I first made these cookie pops at a family gathering and everyone loved how easy it was to hold and share cookies without mess. It quickly became a tradition to customize them based on the season.
Ingredients
- Sugar cookie dough from a tube: this saves time and ensures consistent texture when baked
- Festive sprinkles: adds color and crunch, look for large, bright varieties for maximum pop
- Popsicle sticks: easy to insert and hold the cookies securely, available at craft or baking stores
Ingredients
When buying cookie dough choose one that feels soft but firm enough to roll into balls without sticking too much.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Scoop and shape:
- Scoop one tablespoon of dough and carefully roll it into a smooth ball. Repeat until you have used all the dough to ensure even-sized cookie pops that bake uniformly.
- Coat with sprinkles and insert sticks:
- Gently roll each dough ball in your chosen sprinkles so they stick well. Carefully push a popsicle stick into the center of each ball so it almost reaches the bottom. This creates the classic "pop" shape after baking.
- Prepare and space on baking sheets:
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and arrange cookie pops at least two inches apart. This spacing stops them from melding together as they flatten in the oven.
- Bake with care:
- Place the baking sheets in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake following the package instructions for about twelve to fifteen minutes. The cookies will flatten slightly but keep their round shape around the stick.
- Cool completely:
- Allow the cookie pops to cool all the way on the baking sheets before handling. This step is crucial because warm cookies are fragile and may fall off the sticks if moved too soon.
Save Pin
My favorite part is coating the dough balls in colorful sprinkles which instantly brightens them up. One holiday I made a huge batch, and kids and adults alike fought over which colors to choose.
Storage Tips
Place cooled cookie pops in an airtight container at room temperature where they will stay fresh for up to a week. Avoid stacking them directly to keep sprinkles intact. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to try other cookie flavors use pre-made cookie dough like chocolate chip or snickerdoodle for a twist. You can swap sprinkles with crushed nuts or small candy pieces to change texture and taste. Wooden skewers work in place of popsicle sticks but be sure they are food-safe and smooth enough to avoid splinters.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie pops pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa especially when you dunk them gently to melt some of the sprinkles into the drink. They also make great party favors when wrapped individually in clear cellophane and tied with ribbon. Arrange them on a festive platter for an eye-catching dessert table.
Cultural and Historical Context
Sugar cookies have been a holiday tradition in many cultures due to their simple ingredients and flexible base for decoration. Turning them into pops is a modern adaptation that caters to a grab-and-go lifestyle and playful presentation. Cookie pops are part of a larger trend where classic desserts are reimagined into convenient handheld treats.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What type of dough works best for these pops?
Refrigerated sugar cookie dough offers convenience and the right texture to hold sprinkles and maintain shape while baking.
- → Can I use different sprinkles for other occasions?
Yes, changing sprinkles lets you easily customize the pops for birthdays, seasons, or themed parties throughout the year.
- → How long should I bake the cookie pops?
Typically, they take 12 to 15 minutes at 350°F, or as directed on the dough package, until cookies flatten slightly and edges turn golden.
- → What’s the best way to insert popsicle sticks?
Insert sticks gently into each dough ball before baking, ensuring they’re centered to keep the pops balanced as they bake and cool.
- → How should I serve the cookie pops?
Allow them to cool completely so the dough sets firmly on the sticks. Serve on a tray or dunk into hot cocoa for a festive twist.
- → Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can shape and refrigerate the dough balls with sticks for a few hours before baking, making prep easier for gatherings.