Description
This classic sugar cookies recipe delivers soft, chewy, and sweet treats perfect for any occasion. Made with simple pantry staples, these cookies achieve the ideal texture and flavor, and are easily customizable with various flavor twists and dietary adaptations. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free blend for gluten-free version)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes or roll the dough into balls and flatten slightly with the palm of your hand. Place the shaped dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the sugar cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges begin to turn golden. The centers may look slightly underdone to maintain softness. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional Decorating: Once completely cooled, decorate with royal icing, colored sugars, or sprinkles as desired for a festive look. This step is optional but adds a special touch for holidays or parties.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs to ensure smooth mixing and even texture.
- Mix dough just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Chill the dough before baking to prevent spreading and maintain shape.
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Bake a test cookie first to check oven temperature and baking time accuracy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg