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Delight Your Kids with Adorable Bear Hug Cookies: 5 Simple Steps for Busy Parents to Create Memorable Treats and Boost Family Bonding

A close-up of freshly baked Bear Hug Cookies, golden-brown with a soft, chewy texture, revealing rich chocolate chips and a hint of melty marshmallow in the center. The cookies are artfully arranged on a rustic wooden cutting board, showcasing a few crumbs scattered around, while the out-of-focus background features a warm, inviting home kitchen setting. Soft, natural light filters through a nearby window, casting a gentle glow on the scene, accentuating the inviting aroma of freshly baked treats filling the air.

Bear Hug Cookies: A Sweet Embrace of Flavor

Get ready to experience the warmth and comfort of a bear hug in cookie form! These adorable Bear Hug Cookies are not only delicious but also guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Perfect for parties, gifting, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Bear Hug Cookies

  • Irresistibly cute design
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • Customizable flavors
  • Fun to make with kids
  • Great for any occasion

What You’ll Need

Ingredients Equipment
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Chocolate chips for decoration
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie cutters (bear-shaped and round)
  • Rolling pin
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
  6. Divide the dough in half. Mix cocoa powder and milk into one half for the bear cookies.
  7. Roll out both doughs on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  8. Cut out bear shapes from the chocolate dough and circles from the plain dough.
  9. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
  10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  11. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  12. Once cooled, place the bear cookies on top of the circle cookies, slightly overlapping to create a “hugging” effect.
  13. Use melted chocolate to attach chocolate chips for eyes and nose.
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Pro Tips for Perfect Bear Hug Cookies

  • Chill the dough: If the dough becomes too soft to work with, refrigerate for 15-30 minutes before rolling and cutting.
  • Even baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking for even browning.
  • Flavor variations: Try adding different extracts like almond or peppermint for unique flavors.
  • Decoration ideas: Use colored icing to create different bear “outfits” or expressions.

Serving and Storing

These Bear Hug Cookies are best served at room temperature with a cold glass of milk. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Time to Spread the Love!

Now that you’ve mastered the art of Bear Hug Cookies, it’s time to share the love! These adorable treats are perfect for bake sales, birthday parties, or as a sweet surprise for someone special. Remember, the key to great baking is practice and patience. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to create some seriously cute and delicious cookies. Your friends and family will be begging for bear hugs in no time!

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