Rainbow Unicorn Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 1 cup room temperature unsalted butter
02 - 1½ cups white granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs at room temperature
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Dry Ingredients

05 - 3½ cups all-purpose flour
06 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
07 - ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
08 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ Rainbow Magic

09 - ½ cup colorful sprinkles
10 - Food coloring gel in pink, royal blue, and violet
11 - Extra granulated sugar for rolling

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
02 - Beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs one at a time, then blend in the vanilla until everything is well combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your butter mixture, beating on medium-low speed until a dough forms. Fold in the sprinkles gently.
04 - Divide your dough into 4 equal portions. Leave one portion plain white, then color the other three with your chosen gel colors. Work the color in thoroughly with a spatula or clean hands (wear gloves to avoid staining).
05 - Gently combine all four colored doughs in a large bowl, mixing just enough to create beautiful swirls without blending the colors completely. Less mixing keeps the rainbow effect vibrant.
06 - Use a cookie scoop to portion the marbled dough, then roll each ball in granulated sugar or extra sprinkles. Place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just set.
07 - Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them maintain their soft, chewy texture.

# Notes:

01 - For the best rainbow effect, don't overmix the colored doughs together - you want distinct swirls, not muddy colors.
02 - These cookies can be made ahead by scooping the dough and refrigerating for up to 48 hours, or freezing for longer storage.
03 - If your cookies spread too much during baking, chill the shaped dough for 30 minutes before baking.
04 - Store finished cookies at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months in an airtight container.