Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

There’s something truly magical about biting into a soft, buttery sugar cookie – especially when it’s fresh out of the oven. This easy sugar cookie recipe brings classic flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike.

I first tried this recipe on a cold winter day, hoping to find a simple cookie that would satisfy my family’s sweet tooth. Little did I know, it would become a staple for every holiday, birthday, and family gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

These sugar cookies are a total crowd-pleaser, with a few twists that make them even better than the usual bakery cookies.

First of all, this recipe is as simple as it gets. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in under 30 minutes. No need to chill the dough or use any special equipment – which means fewer dishes to wash!

The texture is spot on. These cookies come out soft and chewy in the middle, with just the right amount of crisp on the edges. Perfect for those who love a tender cookie with a hint of buttery flavor.

Not to mention, they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you want to roll them in sugar, frost them, or top them with sprinkles, these cookies can be customized for any occasion or taste preference.

Best of all, this is a recipe you can turn to year-round. It’s great for holidays, birthdays, or any time you just need a sweet treat in a hurry.

Ingredients Notes

Every ingredient in this easy sugar cookie recipe plays a role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Butter: For the best flavor, use unsalted butter at room temperature. The butter gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth taste and helps achieve the ideal texture.
• Sugar: Simple granulated sugar adds sweetness and a slight crunch. If you want a softer texture, you could substitute a small portion with brown sugar, but keep the majority granulated for the classic sugar cookie taste.
• Egg: The egg is essential for binding the ingredients and adding a bit of moisture. Make sure it’s at room temperature so it mixes in smoothly with the other ingredients.
• Vanilla Extract: A good-quality vanilla extract is key for flavor. If you have it on hand, a touch of almond extract can add a subtle but delicious twist to the cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure to the cookies without making them dense. Be careful not to overmix once you add the flour, or the cookies may turn out tough.
• Baking Powder and Salt: These two essentials ensure the cookies rise properly and aren’t too dense. Salt also balances out the sweetness.

Equipment: All you need is a large mixing bowl, a spoon or spatula, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. A cookie scoop is helpful for even portions but not required!

How To Make This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Making these sugar cookies couldn’t be simpler. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat and Prep
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, cream 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer on medium speed, and it’s what gives the cookies their perfect texture.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
   Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. If you’re using almond extract, add about ¼ teaspoon here as well for an extra hint of flavor.
4. Mix in Dry Ingredients
   In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – this helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
5. Scoop and Bake
   Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Don’t overbake – the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Total time: You can expect these cookies to be ready in just about 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for last-minute baking!

Storage Options

Sugar cookies store beautifully, so you can easily make a batch in advance. Here are a few storage tips to keep them fresh and delicious:

• At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help maintain their softness.
• In the Freezer: These cookies freeze well! After they cool, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds straight from the freezer. This revives that fresh-baked flavor in seconds.

Variations and Substitutions

This sugar cookie recipe is the perfect base to get creative with. Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:

• Frosted Sugar Cookies: Whip up a simple frosting with powdered sugar, milk, and a drop of vanilla extract. Spread it on the cooled cookies and add sprinkles for a festive touch!
• Sprinkle Sugar Cookies: Roll the dough balls in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking. This is a fun option for themed parties or holidays.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a fresh, zesty twist. You can also substitute half the vanilla extract with lemon extract.
• Chocolate Dipped Cookies: Melt chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a chocolate-sugar combo that’s impossible to resist. Sprinkle with crushed nuts or sea salt for extra flair.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture might be slightly different, but the taste will still be delicious.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors and add-ins – this recipe is wonderfully adaptable!

With this easy sugar cookie recipe, you’re all set to create a batch of delightful treats that everyone will love. Whether you make them plain, frosted, or with a sprinkle of something extra, these cookies are sure to become a go-to in your baking routine. Happy baking!

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