If you’re looking for a classic treat that’s both delightful and incredibly straightforward, this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These cookies strike the perfect balance between a soft, buttery texture and just the right sweetness, making them ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a casual afternoon snack or a festive gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients comes together effortlessly, so even if you’re a beginner baker, you’ll find joy in creating these irresistible cookies that bring warmth and happiness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that each play a crucial role in making your sugar cookies taste and feel just right. From the creamy butter that ensures tenderness to the baking powder that gives them that perfect slight rise, every component matters.
- 1 cup butter or margarine, softened: Provides a rich, tender base for the cookies and helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough perfectly and aids in creating a light, crispy edge.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture for a soft bite.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm, aromatic note that’s classic in sugar cookies.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives your cookies a gentle lift for a soft and delicate crumb.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The structure of your cookie, balancing softness and shape.
How to Make Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when your cookies are shaped. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which helps give your cookies a wonderful texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. Don’t rush this part—make sure the egg is evenly distributed to ensure consistent texture and flavor throughout every cookie.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with the baking powder. This ensures the baking powder is evenly dispersed, which will help your sugar cookies rise just right.
Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet butter mixture. Stir gently until a soft, smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough rather than tender.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. For an extra fun touch, you can flatten the balls slightly with a fork or press cookie cutters into the dough to create different shapes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 6 to 8 minutes until the edges begin to turn a light golden color. The centers might look a bit soft—but don’t worry—they’ll set as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, feel free to get creative by decorating with icing, sprinkles, or any toppings you love.
How to Serve Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of homemade royal icing instantly elevates these cookies. Brightly colored sprinkles add a cheerful pop, especially great for holidays or celebrations. Fresh berries or a thin spread of jam can add a fresh, fruity twist.
Side Dishes
Pair your sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk for that nostalgic comfort combo. A cup of hot tea or coffee also complements the sweetness wonderfully, making these cookies perfect for mid-afternoon treats or dessert after dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange your sugar cookies on a festive platter or stack them in a pretty jar tied with ribbon. You can also sandwich them with frosting or Nutella to transform the classic into a delightful cookie sandwich. Using themed cookie cutters lets you tailor the shapes to match any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your sugar cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Placing a slice of bread inside helps maintain moisture so your cookies stay soft and chewy.
Freezing
This Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe dough freezes well! Roll the dough into balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply pop them into the oven—adding a minute or two to the baking time if frozen solid.
Reheating
Warm your sugar cookies just a bit in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes to refresh their softness and bring back that freshly-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using margarine works fine in this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe and can produce similar texture and flavor, though butter will give a slightly richer taste.
Why do my sugar cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are flattening too much, try chilling the dough before baking or check that your flour measurement is accurate. Too little flour or warm dough can cause excess spreading.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this cookie dough?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cinnamon, lemon zest, or even chocolate chips can personalize the cookies while staying true to the simplicity of this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe.
What’s the best way to get crisp edges but soft centers?
Bake just until the edges are lightly golden and the centers still look soft. Removing them promptly and cooling on the baking sheet allows carryover heat to finish the job perfectly.
How long can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months and baked cookies for up to 2 months. Just make sure to store everything in airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe inspires you to roll up your sleeves and bake some sweet memories in your kitchen. There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies filling your home and sharing their simple joy with those you love. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or just because, these cookies always deliver a comforting hug in every bite. Happy baking!
Print
Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy sugar cookie recipe yields soft, buttery cookies with a delicate vanilla flavor that are perfect for any occasion. Simple ingredients and quick preparation make these cookies ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers looking for a classic treat.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup butter or margarine, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a soft texture in the cookies.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture until fully combined and smooth.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a soft dough forms without overworking.
- Shape dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Optionally, flatten the balls with a fork or use cookie cutters to create different shapes.
- Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden, ensuring a soft center.
- Cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate: If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with icing or sprinkles for a festive touch.
Notes
- Do not overbake; cookies should be soft and lightly golden at the edges.
- Using softened butter is key for the right texture—avoid melted butter for this recipe.
- Optionally, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
- For variation, add a half teaspoon of almond extract or substitute half the vanilla with lemon zest.
