Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting are the kind of dessert that instantly sparks joy. With buttery, tender shortbread cookies studded with colorful sprinkles and sandwiched around a smooth vanilla frosting, these cookies capture the nostalgic charm of birthday cake in a refined, bakery-style format.

They are cheerful without being childish, elegant without being fussy, and versatile enough for birthdays, holidays, baby showers, or everyday treats. The contrast between the crisp yet tender shortbread and the creamy filling makes them irresistible and memorable.

Why Funfetti and Shortbread Are a Perfect Match

Shortbread is traditionally known for its simplicity—just butter, sugar, and flour. Adding sprinkles transforms this classic cookie into something playful while preserving its rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Unlike softer sugar cookies, shortbread holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for sandwich cookies. The result is a dessert that looks polished but still feels fun and celebratory.

What Makes These Sandwich Cookies Special

Buttery, tender shortbread texture
Even sprinkle distribution without bleeding
Smooth frosting that complements without overpowering
Perfect structure for stacking, gifting, or parties

These cookies strike a balance between visual appeal and flavor, making them suitable for both casual gatherings and formal dessert tables.

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Cookies

Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Salt
Rainbow sprinkles (jimmies work best)

For the Frosting

Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Heavy cream or milk
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat oven and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Mix in vanilla extract.
Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
Fold in sprinkles gently to avoid color bleeding.
Roll dough between parchment paper and chill until firm.
Cut cookies into uniform shapes and place on baking sheets.
Bake until edges are just set, not browned.
Cool cookies completely on wire racks.
Prepare frosting by beating butter until creamy.
Add powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and cream until smooth.
Spread or pipe frosting onto half the cookies.
Top with remaining cookies to form sandwiches.

The Importance of Chilling Shortbread Dough

Shortbread dough is high in butter, which makes chilling essential. Chilling:

Prevents spreading
Improves texture
Ensures clean edges
Enhances flavor

Skipping this step often results in uneven cookies.

Choosing the Right Sprinkles

Not all sprinkles behave the same in baked goods. For best results:

Use rainbow jimmies
Avoid nonpareils (they bleed color)
Avoid sugar pearls (too hard)

Proper sprinkle choice ensures vibrant color without streaking the dough.

Frosting Consistency Tips

The frosting should be:

Thick enough to hold layers together
Soft enough to bite through easily

Adjust with small amounts of cream as needed.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Cookies (unfilled) can be baked 2 days ahead
Frosting can be made 1 day ahead
Assembled cookies keep well for 3 days refrigerated
Bring to room temperature before serving

Creative Variations

Birthday Cake Version: Add almond extract
Holiday Funfetti: Use themed sprinkles
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip edges in melted chocolate
Lemon Frosting: Replace vanilla with lemon zest

Serving Suggestions

Birthday parties
Baby showers
Cookie boxes and gifting
Dessert tables
Afternoon tea

Serve with milk, coffee, or tea for a balanced treat.

Why These Cookies Are Always a Hit

These cookies combine familiarity and novelty. The funfetti element appeals to all ages, while the shortbread base satisfies those who appreciate classic baked goods.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cookies spread: Dough not chilled long enough
Dry texture: Overbaked cookies
Frosting too sweet: Add a pinch of salt
Uneven layers: Use a piping bag for consistency

Final Thoughts

Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting are proof that playful desserts can still be elegant and refined. With their buttery crumb, cheerful appearance, and creamy center, they deliver both nostalgia and sophistication in every bite.

Funfetti Shortbread Sandwich Cookies with Frosting

Buttery funfetti shortbread cookies sandwiched with smooth vanilla frosting for a festive dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 12

Total Time 1 37

Servings: 18 sandwich cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Baking

Calories: 210