Save Whimsical, colorful treats inspired by the ocean, these mermaid tail sweets combine soft sugar cookies with shimmering buttercream and candy pearls&a mp a magical dessert perfect for parties or special occasions.
I first baked these mermaid tail sweets for my daughter& apos s birthday party and they were an instant hit with all the kids. The colorful frosting and candy pearls made them truly magical.
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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Combine Dough:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape Cookies:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut out mermaid tail shapes using a cookie cutter.
- Bake Cookies:
- Place cookies on prepared sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Frosting:
- For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
- Color Frosting:
- Divide frosting into 3–4 bowls. Tint each with a different gel food coloring.
- Decorate Cookies:
- Using piping bags with star or petal tips, pipe colored buttercream onto cooled cookies to create mermaid tails.
- Final Touch:
- Dust with edible shimmer and decorate with candy pearls or sprinkles as desired.
Save These sweets have become a beloved treat at family gatherings especially during the summer when we all enjoy beach-themed parties together.
Notes
For a shortcut, use ready-made sugar cookie dough and store-bought frosting. Add a drop of coconut extract to the frosting for a tropical twist. Serve with blue raspberry punch for a festive party treat.
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.
Save These mermaid tail sweets add a magical touch to any party and are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant colors and flavors.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get the buttercream to hold its shape when piping?
Ensure the buttercream is well chilled but still soft enough to pipe smoothly. Using firm, but not cold, frosting helps maintain defined shapes.
- → Can I prepare the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, thoroughly cooled cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days before decorating to keep freshness.
- → What tips work best for the mermaid tail details?
Star or petal piping tips create textured scales and flowing lines that mimic the tail's natural look.
- → How do I achieve the shimmering effect on the sweets?
Lightly dust edible shimmer powder or glitter over the frosting once piped to add a gentle sparkle.
- → Are there any ingredient substitutions recommended?
Butter can be substituted with margarine for a dairy alternative, but this may slightly alter texture and flavor.