Name: Polar Bear Cookies: Soft, Chewy Treats for Festive Fun
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 164 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for egg-free); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional); 1 teaspoon baking powder (or 1/2 tsp baking soda); 1/2 teaspoon fine salt; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 1 cup coarse sanding sugar; 1/2 cup chocolate chips (for noses); 1 cup sprinkles (varied colors)

As I pulled the warm batch of Polar Bear Cookies from the oven, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, transporting me back to my childhood baking days. These delightful cookies, with their soft and chewy texture, are perfect for any gathering, especially during the festive season. Topped with creamy buttercream frosting, they not only look adorable but also taste incredibly satisfying—a wonderful alternative to those quick fast-food fixes. With endless possibilities for custom toppings, creating these whimsical treats becomes a fun activity to share with loved ones. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a cozy winter wonderland with these sweet little bears?

Why Are Polar Bear Cookies So Irresistible?

Adorable Appearance: Who can resist the charm of these cuddly polar bear cookies? They are not just treats, but delightful decorations for any festive gathering.

Creamy Buttercream: Each bite reveals a luscious layer of homemade buttercream frosting that complements the soft, chewy cookie perfectly.

Customizable Fun: Get creative with toppings! From chocolate chips for the nose to colorful sprinkles, you can personalize each cookie for every occasion.

Child-Friendly Activity: Baking these cookies is a fantastic way to involve kids in the kitchen, making memories while enjoying a delicious reward!

Versatile Flavor: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy holiday gathering, these cookies are ideal for any event. Try them alongside our Marshmallow Swirl Cookies for a delightful cookie spread!

Polar Bear Cookies Ingredients

Ready to bake some delightful Polar Bear Cookies? Here’s everything you need to whip up these chewy, adorable treats!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; for a dairy-free version, substitute with margarine.
Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy texture; opt for full-fat or vegan cream cheese for dietary preferences.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and adds chewiness; brown sugar boosts flavor with a hint of caramel.
Large Egg – Binds the dough; replace with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for an egg-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; consider using vanilla bean paste for a more intense aroma.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour works great as a substitution.
Cornstarch – Keeps cookies soft and tender; can be omitted if necessary, but texture may vary.
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; substitute with baking soda at half the amount if needed.
Fine Salt – Balances the sweetness; kosher salt can be used in equal measure for a different flavor profile.

For the Buttercream Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens your frosting; choose confectioner’s sugar for a smoother finish.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Adds moisture; use coconut cream for a dairy-free frosting option.

For Decorating

Coarse Sanding Sugar – Adds sparkle; regular granulated sugar can substitute if coarse is unavailable.
Chocolate Chips – Form the bear’s nose; feel free to swap with any dark or semi-sweet chocolate.
Sprinkles (Black, Red or Pink) – Used for decoration; any colorful sprinkles can personalize your cookies.

With these key ingredients, your Polar Bear Cookies will transform into the perfect festive treat, ready to bring cheer to your gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Polar Bear Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
Start by creaming together 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1/2 cup of cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and airy. Then add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated for that delicious base flavor of your Polar Bear Cookies.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your Polar Bear Cookies soft and chewy.

Step 3: Chill Dough
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal texture. This step is crucial as it prevents spreading during baking, ensuring your Polar Bear Cookies maintain their adorable shapes.

Step 4: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and give your Polar Bear Cookies a nice even bake. Make sure your oven has reached the right temperature before you start baking.

Step 5: Roll and Cut Cookies
Take the chilled dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/3 inch. Use a large round cookie cutter to cut out the main cookie shapes, and a smaller cutter for the ears to create those lovely polar bear features. Gather any remaining dough, re-roll, and cut additional cookies.

Step 6: Bake Cookies
Before baking, chill the cut cookies briefly in the fridge for about 15 minutes to firm up. Place them on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the Polar Bear Cookies to cool on the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Buttercream
While the cookies cool, prepare the buttercream frosting. In a medium bowl, beat 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, adding 2-3 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream until you achieve a spreadable, creamy texture perfect for frosting your Polar Bear Cookies.

Step 8: Decorate Cookies
Once the Polar Bear Cookies are cooled, generously frost each cookie with the buttercream and coat them in coarse sanding sugar for a sparkling finish. Use chocolate chips for the noses and colorful sprinkles for added charm. Personalizing each cookie makes them even more special, ready to brighten up any occasion!

Expert Tips for Polar Bear Cookies

Perfect Creaming Technique: Ensure you cream the butter and cream cheese well for fluffy Polar Bear Cookies; this introduces air, creating a softer texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your dough just until combined. Overworking it can lead to tough cookies, losing that delicious chewiness.
Chill for Success: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, keeping your adorable designs intact during baking.
Consistent Thickness: Aim for even thickness when rolling out dough. This ensures your cookies bake evenly, resulting in a perfect texture.
Underbake Slightly: For the softest cookies, consider taking them out of the oven just as they begin to turn golden. They’ll continue to set on the baking sheet.

Make Ahead Options

These adorable Polar Bear Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply divide it, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate. For an even more convenient option, you can freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to one month. Once you’re ready to bake, just roll out the dough and cut the cookies, chilling them briefly before baking to maintain their cute shapes. After baking, you can make the buttercream frosting and decorate the cookies right before serving to keep them just as delicious and visually appealing. Enjoy the ease of preparing these charming treats ahead of time for delightful gatherings!

Polar Bear Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your Polar Bear Cookies! Adding your personal touch can make these delightful treats even more fun and delicious.

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use vegan cream cheese, so everyone can enjoy these treats.
Nutty Flavor: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts to the dough for an unexpected crunch and rich flavor. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures!
Flavored Frosting: Swap vanilla extract with almond or peppermint extract in the buttercream for a fun twist. Just imagine the bursts of flavor with each bite!
Additional Sprinkles: Use colorful holiday-themed sprinkles to match festive occasions, be it Christmas or birthdays—making your cookies even more vibrant and joyful!
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Let everyone delight in these adorable cookies without worry!
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a fun, creamy dessert. Chilling provides a wonderful texture contrast to the cookies!
Cocoa Variation: For a chocolatey spin, mix in 1/3 cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients. These will turn into irresistibly rich Polar Bear Cookies!
Fruity Addition: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries into the dough for a pop of tartness that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness. The combination is a blend of flavors that people will love!

Now that you have plenty of variations to choose from, you’ll have a dazzling tray of Polar Bear Cookies that anyone would love. Don’t forget to try these alongside our delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies or colorful Red White Cookies for an impressive cookie table!

How to Store and Freeze Polar Bear Cookies

Room Temperature: Store frosted Polar Bear Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and soft.

Fridge: If you want to extend their lifespan, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are wrapped or in a container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 1 month. To maintain quality, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Frost after thawing for the best taste.

Reheating: Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before enjoying. If you desire a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!

What to Serve with Polar Bear Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful treats opens a world of delightful pairings that enhance the sweetness of your kitchen creations.

Milk: A classic choice! The rich creaminess balances the sweet, fluffy frosting, making every bite a nostalgic treat.
Hot Cocoa: Serve with a steaming cup of cocoa to elevate your dessert experience; the warmth and chocolate flavor enhance the cookie’s soft texture.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Brighten up your dessert table with a colorful array of fresh berries; their tartness perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Nutty Ice Cream: Pair these cookies with a scoop of salted caramel or pistachio ice cream, adding a creamy, nutty contrast that’s utterly delightful.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a wonderful textural contrast, creating an adventurous dessert experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm chai latte; the spices add depth and warmth, perfect for a delightful afternoon treat.

Let your creativity shine while you mix and match these pairings to create a magical moment around your Polar Bear Cookies!

Polar Bear Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! For the best Polar Bear Cookies, select ingredients carefully. Your unsalted butter should be slightly softened; this will make it easy to cream with the cream cheese. The cream cheese should also be at room temperature, which helps create a smoother dough. For the egg, a large, fresh egg works best—check for a clean shell and a “sell by” date not too far in the past.

How should I store leftover Polar Bear Cookies?
To keep your Polar Bear Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them a little longer, they can last in the fridge for up to 5 days—just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze Polar Bear Cookies, and if so, how?
Very! You can indeed freeze unfrosted Polar Bear Cookies for up to 1 month. Start by wrapping each cookie tightly in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then follow that with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature, and add the frosting afterward for the freshest taste.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find that your cookie dough is too sticky to handle, don’t worry! This sometimes happens due to humidity or the temperature of your ingredients. To remedy this, try chilling the dough for another 30 minutes or so in the fridge. This will firm it up and make rolling and cutting much easier. If it’s still sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and on your hands while shaping.

Are there any dietary considerations for making Polar Bear Cookies?
Yes! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily modify the Polar Bear Cookies. For a dairy-free option, use margarine instead of butter and opt for vegan cream cheese. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce works beautifully! Just be sure to double-check your frostings and decorations as well, especially with sprinkles which can sometimes contain allergens.