Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

There's something magical about the simplicity of a classic sugar cookie. These buttery, soft cookies, with their slightly crisp edges and chewy centers, are a delight all year round. Whether it's a special holiday, a school bake sale, or just a cozy afternoon, this easy sugar cookie recipe is perfect for any occasion.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe when I wanted a straightforward cookie recipe that didn’t require chilling or fancy ingredients. After a few tweaks, it’s become my go-to whenever I need a quick dessert. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll be biting into warm, freshly baked sugar cookies in no time. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

These sugar cookies are truly a game-changer, bringing together ease, flavor, and versatility in every bite.

First, they’re incredibly quick to make. No need to chill the dough, meaning you can whip these up from start to finish in under 30 minutes – perfect for last-minute cravings or surprise guests.

The ingredients are simple and affordable, too. With basics like flour, sugar, and butter, you probably already have everything you need right in your kitchen. These cookies are easy on your wallet and taste amazing.

These cookies are deliciously versatile. Bake them as they are for a classic treat, or add some colored sugar or frosting to make them extra festive for holidays or birthdays.

Finally, this recipe produces perfectly soft and chewy cookies every time. The balance of butter and sugar ensures that delightful texture, with just a hint of vanilla that makes each bite irresistible.

Ready to gather your ingredients? Let’s break down what makes these cookies so special!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this sugar cookie recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering that iconic texture and flavor.

• Flour: All-purpose flour is all you need here, giving the cookies structure without making them too dense. Be sure to measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of your cookies. Let it come to room temperature before mixing – it should be soft enough to press down with a finger but not melted. This makes for a creamy, well-combined dough.
• Granulated Sugar: This is the star sweetener in sugar cookies. It not only gives the cookies their sweetness but also helps create that slightly crisp edge and chewy center.
• Egg: Adding just one large egg binds the dough and gives the cookies structure. It also adds a bit of moisture, making for a soft, tender cookie.
• Vanilla Extract: A good-quality vanilla extract brings out the buttery flavors and adds warmth to each bite. If you have it on hand, use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for the best results.

No special equipment is needed! Just a mixing bowl, hand mixer, and baking sheets. A cookie scoop is helpful for even-sized cookies, but a spoon works fine, too.

How To Make This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Making these sugar cookies couldn’t be easier! Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you perfect cookies every time.

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This keeps the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial, as creaming adds air into the dough, resulting in lighter cookies.
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything mixes evenly.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the cookies may become tough.
5. Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Avoid overbaking; the centers should still look slightly soft.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up, but they’ll remain chewy and soft on the inside.

And that’s it – warm, chewy sugar cookies are ready to enjoy! The whole process should take about 25 minutes, start to finish.

Storage Options

These cookies store wonderfully, so you can enjoy them for days after baking. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper if stacking to prevent them from sticking together.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
• Dough Freezing Option: If you prefer to bake fresh cookies, you can freeze the dough instead. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and transfer them to a freezer bag. You can bake them straight from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

To reheat, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about sugar cookies is how adaptable they are. Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Holiday Sprinkles: Add some festive sprinkles to the tops before baking, or mix them right into the dough for a colorful twist perfect for any holiday.
• Almond Extract: Substitute half of the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile. The almond flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery cookie base.
• Lemon Zest: For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the dough. It adds a light, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for spring and summer.
• Frosted Sugar Cookies: For extra indulgence, whip up a quick buttercream frosting and decorate each cookie after cooling. It’s a fun activity with kids and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Chocolate Dipped: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie into melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles. This gives the cookies a festive, bakery-style look.

With endless possibilities, these sugar cookies can be customized for any taste or occasion. Feel free to get creative!

With this recipe in your repertoire, you’ll always be prepared to make a sweet treat that everyone will love. Happy baking!

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