Name: Funny Face Cookies that Brighten Any Celebration
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 82 min
Ingredients: 175 g Soft Butter (Adds richness and flavor; substitute with margarine if dairy-free.); 100 g Golden Caster Sugar (Provides sweetness and a fine texture; can be replaced with regular granulated sugar.); 1 large Egg Yolk (Binds the dough, contributing to its structure; no substitute when forming dough.); ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (Adds depth of flavor; use almond extract for variation.); 1 lemon Lemon Zest (Brightens the flavor profile; can substitute with orange zest.); 250 g Plain Flour (Forms the structure of the cookies; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.); ½ tsp Salt (Enhances flavor; essential for balance.); 200 g Icing Sugar (Base for decorating icing; can be substituted with powdered erythritol for a sugar-free option.); 1 large Egg White (Whips into a meringue for the icing; no substitute for desired consistency.); Pink and Brown Food Colouring Pastes (For vibrant icing colors; gel colors work best for a richer hue.); Pink and Gold Edible Glitter (optional; for decoration; may omit if not available.); Cake Pop Sticks (Used for holding cookies; ensure they're sturdy and food-safe.)

As I rummaged through my kitchen, a stroke of inspiration whisked me away to a playful world of shapes and colors. Enter the Funny Face Cookies, your new go-to iced treats that delight both the young and young-at-heart! Perfect for any occasion, from whimsical wedding favors to Halloween fun, these cookies aren’t just a feast for the eyes—they bring cheerful smiles to every gathering. Imagine colorful moustaches and retro lips, each cookie a canvas for creativity. Not only are they a joy to decorate, but their buttery texture and sweet icing make them irresistible as well. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking to entertain kids, these cookies offer a delightful diversion from the usual snacks. Ready to get your cookie game on? Let’s make some memories in the kitchen!

Why Are Funny Face Cookies So Fun?

Whimsical, Eye-Catching Designs: Each cookie features playful shapes like moustaches and lips that are sure to spark joy at any event.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or even festive Halloween gatherings, these cookies adapt to any occasion!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, baking becomes a delightful activity for both adults and kids alike.
Creative Decorating: Encourage creativity by letting little ones help with the icing—check out my Luscious Lemon Cookies for more fun decorating ideas!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their buttery goodness and delightful flavors make them a hit, ensuring no cookie is left behind!

Funny Face Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Soft Butter (175g) – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with margarine if dairy-free.
• Golden Caster Sugar (100g) – Provides sweetness and a fine texture; can be replaced with regular granulated sugar.
• Egg Yolk (1 large) – Binds the dough, contributing to its structure; no substitute when forming dough.
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp) – Adds depth of flavor; use almond extract for variation.
• Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon) – Brightens the flavor profile; can substitute with orange zest.
• Plain Flour (250g) – Forms the structure of the cookies; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances flavor; essential for balance.

For Decorating
• Icing Sugar (200g) – Base for decorating icing; can be substituted with powdered erythritol for a sugar-free option.
• Large Egg White (1) – Whips into a meringue for the icing; no substitute for desired consistency.
• Pink and Brown Food Colouring Pastes – For vibrant icing colors; gel colors work best for a richer hue.
• Pink and Gold Edible Glitter (optional) – For decoration; may omit if not available.

For Assembly
• Cake Pop Sticks – Used for holding cookies; ensure they’re sturdy and food-safe.

These Funny Face Cookies are not just treats; they’re a playful canvas for both baking and creativity, making memories in every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Funny Face Cookies

Step 1: Dough Preparation
Begin by softening 175g of butter in a mixing bowl, beating it with 100g of golden caster sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy. Next, add 1 large egg yolk, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the zest of one lemon, mixing until well combined. Sift 250g of plain flour and ½ teaspoon of salt into the mixture, stirring to form a soft dough. Split the dough into two flat discs, wrap them in cling film, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until they are firm but not hard.

Step 2: Shaping Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas 4) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 5mm thick. Use an 8cm round cutter to stamp out circles, then carve out crescent moons for moustaches and oval shapes for lips. For the moustaches, shape half-moons and pinch the ends to create the signature look of these Funny Face Cookies.

Step 3: Chilling and Inserting Sticks
To ensure the cookies maintain their shape, chill the shaped dough in the refrigerator for another 10 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up. Carefully insert cake pop sticks into each cookie, ensuring that the sticks don’t poke through the dough’s surface but provide a sturdy hold for decoration later.

Step 4: Baking
Once chilled, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 12 minutes, or until they are pale golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking. After baking, let the cookies rest on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, so they firm up nicely.

Step 5: Icing Preparation
In a clean bowl, beat 1 large egg white with 200g of icing sugar until the mixture becomes thick and smooth. Divide the icing into four batches, using gel food coloring to create two shades of pink and two of brown for the vibrant decor on your Funny Face Cookies. Place the darker colors into piping bags for easier decorating later.

Step 6: Decorating Cookies
Begin decorating by piping the outlines for the moustaches and lips on the cookies with the colored icing. Allow these outlines to dry for a few minutes. Then, thin the paler icing with a few drops of water and flood the cookies within the outlines, creating a smooth base. Let this icing dry before adding the detailed designs, piping darker mouth lines, and zig-zag patterns over the moustaches. If you wish, sprinkle on some edible glitter for extra fun and bling, and let it all set beautifully.

Funny Face Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel inspired to explore your creativity while making these delightful cookies—there are so many fun ways to customize them!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly version that maintains flavor.
Add Citrus Zest: Enhance your dough with the zest of an orange or lime for a refreshing twist that brightens each bite. The added zest offers a delightful surprise that may just become your new favorite.
Flavored Extracts: Swap vanilla for almond or peppermint extract. Changing the extract adds a unique flair, creating a new cookie experience with every batch!
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of plain flour. Many gluten-free options maintain the cookie’s structure and flavor, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the iced cookies. The rich chocolate adds indulgence to the playful design—perfect for special occasions.
Seasonal Shapes: Instead of moustaches and lips, use themed cookie cutters to create pumpkins for Halloween or hearts for Valentine’s Day. The possibilities for fun shapes are endless!
Sugar-Free: Substitute icing sugar with powdered erythritol for a sugar-free icing option. The sweetness remains, allowing for guilt-free enjoyment without sacrificing flavor.
Add Edible Decorations: Use colorful sprinkles or themed edible decorations for an extra festive touch. These small additions can elevate the visual appeal and enhance the joy of decorating with family and friends.

Feel free to experiment with these ideas and watch the smiles bloom as you serve up these whimsical treats! And if you’re on the hunt for even more cookie inspiration, you might enjoy trying my Thumbprint Cookies Melt or savoring the vibrant flavors of Orange Creamsicle Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Funny Face Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough and chill it for up to 24 hours in advance, wrapped tightly in cling film to prevent drying out. Additionally, the shaped cookies can be frozen raw for up to 3 months; just freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw for about 30 minutes before baking as per the instructions. For the icing, you can make it ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before using. This strategy allows you to have delightful, whimsical cookies ready to impress your guests with minimal day-of effort!

What to Serve with Funny Face Cookies

Add a sprinkle of joy to your gathering by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary treats and beverages that enhance their fun, inviting vibe.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate balances the sweetness of the cookies, making for a cozy pairing that’s sure to please guests of all ages.
Fresh Fruit Skewers: Juicy, colorful fruits like strawberries, pineapple, and grapes add a refreshing crunch, offering a contrast to the buttery cookies and making them feel lighter.
Colorful Spritzers: Serve a whimsical fruit spritzer with hints of citrus that echoes the vibrant icing colors. It’s a fun and festive drink that complements the playful theme.
Ice Cream Sundaes: Elevate dessert time by serving scoops of vanilla ice cream topped with chocolate sauce. The cold creaminess creates a delightful indulgence alongside the cookies.
Mini Cupcakes: Soft, fluffy cupcakes—perhaps with sprinkles on top—pair well with these cookies for a sweet table spread that invites delightful bites and happy faces.
Milk Shakes: A classic pairing, creamy milk shakes in chocolate or strawberry flavors provide a nostalgic twist and a fun way to enjoy the cookies as they dip into deliciousness.
Coffee or Tea: Brew a pot of rich coffee or herbal tea for adults seeking a comforting warm drink that complements the sweet characteristics of the Funny Face Cookies.

Let your creativity shine by mixing and matching these suggestions for an unforgettable celebration where your Funny Face Cookies take center stage!

Expert Tips for Funny Face Cookies

Chill the Dough: Properly chill the dough before cutting and baking to maintain the funny face shapes and prevent spreading during baking.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing may lead to tough cookies instead of the tender, buttery goodness you desire.
Use the Right Tools: Invest in good-quality cookie cutters for clean shapes and a palette knife for transferring cookies to avoid breakage.
Color with Care: Gradually add food coloring to your icing for the best results. Test your shades on a plate before piping on the cookies to ensure they’re just right.
Be Patient with Drying: Allow each layer of icing to dry thoroughly before adding more details; this prevents colors from bleeding into each other and maintains their vibrant look.
Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to switch up the designs for different occasions; these Funny Face Cookies can easily be adapted for Halloween or holiday themes!

How to Store and Freeze Funny Face Cookies

Room Temperature: Store iced Funny Face Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and the icing intact.

Fridge: If your home is warm, place the cookies in the fridge for added preservation. They will stay fresh for up to 10 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: Freeze uniced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For the best texture, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight. Avoid reheating iced cookies in the microwave to prevent melting the icing.

Funny Face Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for the dough?
Absolutely! When it comes to the butter, use soft butter (not melted) for that rich flavor and texture. Ensure your egg yolk is fresh—check the expiry date! As for the lemon, look for ones that feel heavy for their size and have a firm skin for the best zest.

How should I store leftover Funny Face Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your iced Funny Face Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If your kitchen is particularly warm, the fridge is a great alternative, extending their life to about 10 days. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze uniced Funny Face Cookies?
Yes! Freezing is a perfect way to preserve your cookie dough for later. Arrange the uniced cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before icing.

What if my dough is too soft and spreads during baking?
Very! If your dough feels too soft, chill it longer before cutting out shapes, as this helps solidify the butter. If it already spread, don’t worry! Allow the cookies to cool completely and enjoy the unique shapes as a fun surprise!

Are these cookies suitable for children or those with allergies?
These Funny Face Cookies contain common allergens like eggs and gluten. However, for a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Always check for allergies to specific ingredients, and consider using substitutes like aquafaba for egg whites if you need to cater to egg allergies.

Do I need any special tools for decorating?
Indeed! A piping bag makes icing your Funny Face Cookies a breeze, especially for detailed designs. If you don’t have one, a sturdy plastic bag with a corner snipped off will do! A palette knife is handy for transferring cookies without breaking them, ensuring they look perfect for your guests.