The Best Circus Animal Cookies
I couldn’t believe how much better these frosted animal crackers were than the store-bought version. I mean, I set out to make a good cookie, but these exceeded even my expectations. These circus animal cookies are deliciously buttery — definitely something the store-bought version lacks — and they have a real vanilla flavor to them (plus I love the hint of flavor from the almond extract I added). They are also more tender and have more of a melt-in-your-mouth bite to them, and best of all they don’t have that off flavor (I’ve never liked that about the store-bought version, not sure if it’s a preservative or what). My husband and I loved these frosted animal cookies just as much as our kids did, so I know these are going to be something we’ll make again and again. They are such a fun treat for just about anything (tint any color you’d like) or anyone, because who doesn’t love iced animal cookies? I love making homemade versions of classic childhood favorites, people always go crazy for them (have you tried my recipe for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies yet? Love those!). Plus, fresher is just always better. I tested these circus cookies with two types of icing, the first is a creamy glaze that hardens and the second is probably more similar to that of the original version — but I loved both so I listed both. Just use what you have, then try the second option the next time and see which you like best. Happy baking!
Frosted Circus Animal Cookies Ingredients
All-purpose flour Baking powder Salt Unsalted butter Powdered sugar Granulated sugar Egg Vanilla and almond extracts Rainbow sprinkles Half and half Food coloring
How to Make Circus Animal Cookies
Make the cookie dough. Divide into two portions, shape into disks and chill until more firm.
Cut cookies into mini animal shapes using cookie cutters. Transfer to a parchment paper or silicone baking mat-lined baking sheet and bake until set.
Prepare icing. Tint half with pink coloring (or other color of choice), if desired.
Let cookies cool, then spread icing over cookies. Add sprinkles before icing sets.
Do I Have to Chill the Cookie Dough?
Yes, otherwise the circus cookies won’t hold their shape in the oven and will spread a lot. You need to chill the dough for at least 90 minutes!
Can I Cut These Frosted Animal Cookies Into Different Shapes?
Of course! If you don’t have animal-shaped cookie cutters, you can use any small cookie cutter you have on hand.
How to Store Frosted Circus Animal Cookies
These buttery cookies are slightly crisp, and they keep beautifully on the countertop. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresher for longer.
Tips for the Best Circus Animal Cookies
You can make the icing with heavy cream as well as half and half, but you may have to add a little more since heavy cream is thicker. Use any color of food coloring you’d like to make these animal cookies suitable for any occasion. Let the circus animal cookies cool for several minutes on the baking sheet before moving them to a cooling rack.
More Cookie Recipes You’ll Love:
Old Fashioned Iced Oatmeal Cookies Flourless Chocolate Cookies No Bake Cookies Soft Sour Cream Sugar Cookies 5-Ingredient Funfetti Shortbread Bites
