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Best Shamrock Vanilla Bean Cookies for St. Patty's

Soft and festive Vanilla Bean St. Patrick's Day Cookies made with real vanilla bean seeds for rich, aromatic flavor. These cut-out cookies bake up with crisp edges, chewy centers, and are perfect for shamrock frosting and holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 36 –48 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour plus more for rolling
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • Seeds scraped from 1 whole vanilla bean
  • 1 large egg room temperature
  • 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened (for frosting)
  • Seeds scraped from 1/2 vanilla bean for frosting
  • 3 cups confectioners’ sugar sifted
  • 3 tbsp heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract for frosting
  • Salt to taste
  • Green gel food coloring optional
  • Sprinkles optional

Method
 

  1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
  2. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add vanilla bean seeds, egg, and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
  5. Divide dough in half, roll to 1/4-inch thickness, and chill for 1–2 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Cut dough into shapes and place on baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 11–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  9. Cool briefly on baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
  10. Beat frosting butter and vanilla bean seeds until creamy.
  11. Add confectioners’ sugar, cream, vanilla extract, and salt and beat until fluffy.
  12. Tint frosting green if desired and decorate cooled cookies.

Notes

Chilling the dough is essential to maintain cookie shape. Use real vanilla beans for the best aroma and flavor.