Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

ByTaylor
Jump to Recipe· 4.6 from 50 reviews

If you’re craving something that captures the fun and sweetness of a party in every bite, you have to try my Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cookies are soft, buttery, and loaded with that nostalgic birthday cake flavor that everyone loves, then topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s smooth and just the right tang. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be your go-to treat for celebrations big or small. Ready to impress your friends, family, or just treat yourself? Let’s dive in!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Moist and Tender Texture: The mix of cake flour and cornstarch creates clouds of soft, delicate cookies that feel like actual cake bites.
  • Perfect Frosting Balance: Cream cheese frosting adds just the right tang and creaminess to cut through the sweetness without overpowering.
  • Fun, Festive Look: Sprinkles and confetti crumbs turn these cookies into colorful little celebrations, making them party-ready and delightful.
  • Chill Time for Easy Handling: Refrigerating the dough helps with rolling and cleaner cookie shapes, ensuring your baking session is stress-free.
Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, birthday cake cookies, creamy frosting cookie recipe, celebration cookies, soft birthday cookies - A group of round sugar cookies each with three layers: the base is a pale tan cookie, the middle layer is a smooth and creamy white frosting spread evenly on top, and the top layer is a mix of small crumbly pieces and colorful sprinkles in purple, pink, blue, yellow, and green scattered across the frosting. The cookies are arranged closely on a white marbled surface, with some sprinkles fallen around them and a few candles nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe plays its part perfectly—bringing together flavor, texture, and that dreamy “birthday cake” essence. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’re working with and why I stick to these choices.

Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, birthday cake cookies, creamy frosting cookie recipe, celebration cookies, soft birthday cookies - Flat lay of a small mound of pale yellow unsalted butter softened, a simple white ceramic bowl filled with fine granulated sugar sparkling naturally, two whole brown eggs with clean shells, a small white bowl containing clear vanilla extract, a neat pile of soft white cake flour, a small white bowl with pure white cornstarch powder, a small white bowl holding fine baking powder, a small cluster of coarse white table salt, a small white bowl filled with smooth cream cheese block, a small white ceramic bowl of fine powdered sugar, and a small white bowl of tiny multicolored confetti crumbs, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Unsalted Butter: Using softened butter gives you a tender crumb and creamy mouthfeel; I always recommend room temperature to get a smooth blend.
  • Granulated Sugar: It sweetens the dough but also helps create a slight crisp edge if you bake just right.
  • Egg and Egg White: Using both adds moisture and just enough structure without making the cookies tough.
  • Clear Vanilla Extract: This isn’t your usual vanilla—it has that classic “birthday cake” flavor you want; regular vanilla works fine if you prefer natural flavors.
  • Cake Flour: The secret to softness! It has less protein than all-purpose flour, so cookies stay tender rather than chewy.
  • Cornstarch: Mixes in with flour for an extra delicate crumb, making a subtle but key difference.
  • Baking Powder: Gives just enough lift to puff these cookies up slightly, no flat or dense bites here.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors, so don’t skip it!
  • Cream Cheese: A full-fat, brick-style is best for that silky texture and subtle tang in the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides the smooth sweetness that makes frosting velvety without any grittiness.
  • Confetti Crumbs or Sprinkles: These aren’t just for show—they add fun pops of texture and that iconic birthday vibe.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

Making this Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe your own is part of the fun. I often switch up the sprinkles based on the season or occasion, and sometimes I’ll add a little lemon zest to the frosting for a citrusy twist that brightens the whole cookie.

  • Variation: I once swapped the clear vanilla for almond extract on a whim, and it turned out wonderfully nutty—perfect if you love a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Dietary Modifications: You could experiment with a gluten-free cake flour substitute, but I’d recommend chilling the dough a bit longer as gluten-free doughs often need extra firming.
  • Seasonal Twist: During holidays, adding holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter can make these cookies extra festive.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Getting That Cookie Dough Just Right

Start by creaming your softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this usually takes a good 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. The texture is important because it traps air, helping the cookies bake up tender and slightly airy. Next, stir in your egg, egg white, and vanilla extract, making sure everything is smooth and fully combined.

Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients and Bringing Dough Together

Whisk together your cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and salt. Add this dry mix gradually into your butter mixture on low speed, being careful not to overmix. I usually add the flour in four parts, scraping the bowl each time to make sure no lumps sneak in. When it looks just combined and silky, stop—overmixing can make cookies tough.

Step 3: Chill Before You Roll

Form your dough into a disk about an inch thick, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and pop it into the fridge for at least one hour. This step really helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out and preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. While you wait, it’s a perfect time to prep your confetti crumbs or sprinkles!

Step 4: Rolling and Cutting with Confidence

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ to ½ inch thick. If your dough feels sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it a bit longer or lightly dust your rolling pin and surface with flour. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut shapes, placing them close but leaving at least 2 inches between each on your baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This spacing prevents them from merging during baking.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. You’ll want to watch them carefully toward the end: they’re done when the edges look just set and the bottoms are lightly golden. Let your cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes after baking—it makes transferring them to a wire rack safer, so they don’t break. Cooling completely before frosting is key to avoid melty frosting disasters.

Step 6: Whipping Up That Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

Using softened butter and cream cheese, beat together until silky smooth and lump-free—I usually spend about 2-3 minutes here. Gradually blend in powdered sugar for that perfect, spreadable sweetness. Finish with vanilla and just a pinch of salt to enhance all those flavors. Once your frosting is ready, either spread it on with a knife or pipe it using a ½” round tip; sprinkle with your confetti crumbs or colorful sprinkles immediately for that party-perfect look.

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Pro Tips for Making Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

  • Perfect Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky when rolling, don’t force it—chill it longer, then use just a light dusting of flour; this keeps the cookies tender.
  • Even Baking: Rotate your cookie sheets halfway through baking to get evenly baked, beautiful golden bottoms every time.
  • Frosting Texture: Be sure your cream cheese and butter are well softened for a smooth, lump-free frosting that pipes beautifully.
  • Storage Safety: Wait for cookies to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting; this keeps your cookies looking just as pretty as they taste.

How to Serve Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting, birthday cake cookies, creamy frosting cookie recipe, celebration cookies, soft birthday cookies - The image shows a close-up of round sugar cookies with three main layers. The bottom layer is a thick, soft, light beige cookie base with a smooth texture. On top of the cookie is a thick layer of white, creamy frosting spread evenly with a soft, slightly whipped texture. The top layer is a crumbly topping with small chunks and colorful sprinkles in purple, blue, pink, and orange that add a fun detail to the cookie. The cookies rest on a white marbled surface, and the focus is on one cookie in the foreground with blurred similar cookies in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing these cookies, I’m pretty simple: colorful sprinkles are my absolute favorite because they scream birthday vibes and add a fun crunch. Sometimes I swap those for tiny edible glitter or chopped rainbow confetti crumbs made from leftover cookie bits—which adds a really sweet little surprise in every bite.

Side Dishes

These cookies shine on their own, but if you want to turn your snack time into a full celebration, serve with a cold glass of milk or a frothy vanilla latte. At parties, I like placing them alongside fruit platters or light cheeseboards so guests have something refreshing to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays, I like to display these cookies stacked on cute cake stands or arranged in clear jars tied with ribbons—instant festive décor. Another trick is to package them individually in cellophane bags with a colorful twist tie; it makes great party favors and keeps the frosting safe during transport.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store my leftover Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. I keep them in a single layer when possible to prevent squishing the frosting. If you don’t think they’ll last that long, freezing is a great option!

Freezing

I freeze these cookies un-frosted first; once frozen solid, I wrap them individually in plastic wrap then place in a freezer bag. When you want to frost them later, just thaw completely at room temperature. You can also freeze frosted cookies by flash freezing them on a tray, then wrapping—just know the frosting texture might get a little softer on thaw.

Reheating

I don’t generally recommend reheating frosted cookies because the frosting can melt, but if you want freshly baked warmth, unwrap an unfrosted cookie and warm for 10-15 seconds in the microwave—warm, tender, and just-baked deliciousness. Then add your frosting if you’ve prepared it fresh!

FAQs

  1. Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of cake flour for these cookies?

    You can, but the texture won’t be quite as soft and tender. Cake flour has lower protein content, which gives these cookies that melt-in-your-mouth feel. If you do use all-purpose flour, consider removing about 2 tablespoons of flour and replacing it with cornstarch to mimic cake flour’s effects.

  2. Why do I need to chill the dough before rolling?

    Chilling firms up the dough so it’s easier to roll out without sticking or cracking. It also helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin or misshaping during baking, giving you those pretty, uniform rounds that look just like store-bought birthday cake cookies.

  3. What’s the difference between clear vanilla extract and regular vanilla extract?

    Clear vanilla extract is actually imitation vanilla and has a flavor often associated with classic birthday cake or cake batter. It’s less rich than regular vanilla and keeps the frosting and dough colors bright and pale. If you prefer natural flavors, regular vanilla will still work great!

  4. How do I keep the cream cheese frosting from being too soft?

    Make sure both the butter and cream cheese are softened but not warm or melting. Beat them until smooth but don’t overmix once you add the powdered sugar. Chill the frosting slightly if needed to firm up before piping or spreading.

Final Thoughts

This Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe has become one of my favorite ways to share the joy of birthdays any day of the year. There’s something about that tender crumb paired with a tangy, creamy frosting dotted with cheerful confetti that just hits all the right happy notes. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do—bet you’ll be getting requests to bake these again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a little slice of birthday magic anytime you want!

Print
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Birthday Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 50 reviews
  • Author: Taylor
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
  • Yield: 22 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Birthday Cake Cookies featuring soft, cake-flour based cookies topped with creamy cream cheese frosting and festive confetti crumbs. Perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla, these cookies offer the nostalgic flavor of birthday cake in handheld form.

Ingredients

For Cookies

  • 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter softened
  • ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg white
  • ½ teaspoon clear vanilla extract
  • 3 ¼ cups (375 g) cake flour
  • 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon table salt

For Frosting

  • 4 Tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter softened
  • 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese softened (use full-fat “brick-style” cream cheese)
  • 2 ½ cups (315 g) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon clear vanilla extract
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 1 batch confetti crumbs

Instructions

  1. Mix Butter and Sugar: Combine softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat until the mixture is light, creamy, and well-combined.
  2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Stir in the egg, egg white, and vanilla extract until completely incorporated.
  3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring on low speed until completely combined. Add the flour mixture in four parts, stirring until just combined after each addition.
  5. Chill Dough: Form the dough into a 1-inch thick disk, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. While chilling, prepare the confetti crumbs if desired.
  6. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use an ungreased cookie sheet.
  7. Roll and Cut Dough: Remove dough from refrigerator and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll dough to ¼ to ½ inch thickness. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter to cut cookies as close together as possible. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare Frosting: Combine softened butter and cream cheese in a bowl and beat with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
  10. Add Sugar and Flavorings: Gradually add powdered sugar until fully combined, then stir in vanilla extract and salt.
  11. Decorate Cookies: Pipe or spread frosting over cooled cookies using a ½-inch open tip for piping if desired. Immediately top with confetti crumbs or sprinkles.

Notes

  • Clear vanilla extract: This imitation vanilla extract gives a more artificial birthday cake flavor. You can substitute regular vanilla extract if preferred for a natural taste.
  • Difficulty rolling dough: If dough is sticky, chill longer in the refrigerator. Dust with flour if needed to manage stickiness. If dough cracks, let it sit at room temperature briefly before rolling again.
  • Storing: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Wrap well and freeze for several months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 90 mg
  • Fat: 11 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg

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