Easter Sugar Cookie Cake: A Celebration of Spring in Every Bite

A Sweet Tradition That Brings Families Together

Every Easter, my family gathers in the kitchen, rolling up our sleeves and diving into the joy of baking. It’s a tradition that started with my grandmother, who believed that every holiday deserved a dessert that was both festive and delicious. Growing up, my siblings and I would eagerly wait for her to bring out her worn recipe book, filled with handwritten notes and flour-dusted pages.

One year, instead of the usual sugar cookies, she surprised us with something different—a giant, colorful cookie cake decorated with pastel candies and fluffy frosting. It was love at first bite. The crisp edges, the soft center, and the delightful crunch of M&Ms made it an instant favorite. From that moment on, the Easter Sugar Cookie Cake became a must-have at our holiday table.

Now, I carry on this tradition, baking this sweet masterpiece every spring. It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of togetherness, nostalgia, and the simple joys of Easter. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, an Easter brunch, or just because you love a good sugar cookie, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.

Why This Cookie Cake Stands Out

Unlike traditional sugar cookies, which require rolling and cutting, this cookie cake is effortless yet just as delightful. It’s baked in a cake pan, giving you the perfect combination of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center. Here’s why this Easter Sugar Cookie Cake is the ultimate holiday treat:

• No Chilling Required: Many cookie recipes require chilling the dough, but not this one! You can go from mixing to baking in minutes.
• One-Bowl Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy the holiday with loved ones.
• Customizable for Any Occasion: While this version is decorated with Easter sprinkles and pastel M&Ms, you can easily switch them out for different holidays or celebrations.
• Perfect Balance of Texture: Soft and chewy on the inside with just the right crispness on the edges—everything you want in a sugar cookie, but in cake form.
• Kid-Friendly and Fun: The decorating process makes this a great baking project for little hands. Let them sprinkle on candies, pipe the frosting, and get creative!

Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Sweetness

For the Cookie Cake:

• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
• 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (220g) pastel-colored M&Ms
• ½ cup (78g) Easter sprinkles

For the Frosting:

• 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups (170g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons (15ml) heavy whipping cream or milk

Directions: A Simple Path to Cookie Cake Bliss

1. Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 350°F. Line a 9-inch round cake pan with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter and sugar until creamy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing well. Stir in baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. Gradually mix in the flour.
3. Add the Fun: Fold in the M&Ms and sprinkles.
4. Shape & Bake: Press the dough evenly into the prepared cake pan. For extra color, press a few M&Ms on top. Bake for 19-22 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely before frosting.
5. Make the Frosting: Beat the butter until smooth. Slowly mix in powdered sugar until crumbly. Add vanilla, salt, and heavy cream, beating until smooth and spreadable.
6. Decorate: Use a piping bag with a 1M star tip to pipe frosting around the edges. Top with more M&Ms and sprinkles.
7. Serve & Store: Store loosely covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate if making ahead.

Nutritional Information: A Sweet Indulgence

• Calories: 641 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 89g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 3202mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 58g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Makes a Cookie Cake Different from a Regular Sugar Cookie?

A cookie cake is essentially a giant cookie baked in a cake pan, which gives it a soft, chewy texture that’s slightly thicker than a traditional sugar cookie. It’s quicker to make since there’s no need for rolling out dough or using cookie cutters.

2. How Do I Know When My Cookie Cake is Done?

The edges should turn a light golden brown, but the center will still look slightly underbaked. This is key! The cookie will continue to cook as it cools, resulting in a perfectly chewy texture. If you overbake it, you may end up with a drier cookie.

3. Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bake the cookie cake up to 24 hours in advance and store it loosely covered at room temperature. If you’ve already frosted it, storing it in the refrigerator is best.

4. Can I Freeze the Cookie Cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the whole cake or individual slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature.

5. What Type of Frosting Works Best?

A classic vanilla buttercream is a perfect match for this cookie cake, but you can also try:

• Chocolate buttercream for a richer flavor.
• Cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast.
• Whipped cream frosting for a lighter touch.

6. Can I Use a Different Pan Size?

This recipe is designed for a 9-inch round cake pan, but you can also bake it in:

• A 9×13-inch pan for a thinner cookie bar version.
• A springform pan for easier removal.
• A square pan if you prefer square slices over wedges.

7. What Other Mix-Ins Can I Use Besides M&Ms?

The beauty of this recipe is that you can switch up the mix-ins based on your taste. Try adding:

• White chocolate chips for a creamy sweetness.
• Chopped nuts for a bit of crunch.
• Shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
• Crushed Oreos for a cookies-and-cream effect.

8. How Can I Prevent My Cookie Cake from Sticking to the Pan?

Lining the pan with foil or parchment paper and spraying it with nonstick cooking spray ensures easy removal. If using foil, leave a little overhang so you can lift the cake out effortlessly.

9. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

If unfrosted, store the cookie cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If frosted, keep it refrigerated to maintain the texture of the frosting.

10. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! Simply swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate candies. For the frosting, replace the heavy cream with a plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk.

Creative Variations for Different Occasions

While this cookie cake is perfect for Easter, you can adapt it to suit any holiday or celebration:

• Christmas: Use red and green M&Ms with festive sprinkles.
• Halloween: Try orange and black sprinkles with candy eyeballs for a spooky twist.
• Valentine’s Day: Add pink and red M&Ms with heart-shaped sprinkles.
• Birthdays: Use rainbow sprinkles and top with birthday candles for a fun alternative to traditional cake.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Cookie Cake

• Use Quality Butter: Since butter is a key ingredient, opt for a high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can make the cookie cake dense instead of soft and chewy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Add a Touch of Almond Extract: A ½ teaspoon of almond extract enhances the flavor beautifully.
• Press Extra M&Ms on Top Before Baking: This ensures the candies stay visible and colorful after baking.
• Let It Cool Completely Before Frosting: If you frost while it’s warm, the buttercream will melt and lose its shape.

Why This Cookie Cake Will Be the Star of Your Easter Table

Easter is all about family, fun, and delicious treats, and this Easter Sugar Cookie Cake checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, bursting with festive colors, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether served at brunch, a holiday gathering, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate the season.

There’s something special about baking a giant cookie instead of a traditional cake—it’s playful, nostalgic, and just plain delicious. And best of all, it brings people together, creating memories that last far beyond the final bite.

So go ahead, bake this Easter Sugar Cookie Cake, share it with the ones you love, and start a new family tradition that will be cherished for years to come.

Print