Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Classic sugar cookies are a timeless treat perfect for any occasion. With their soft texture and delicate sweetness, they are easy to make and fun to decorate. This recipe yields buttery, delicious cookies that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. Step 6: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Step 7: Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Step 8: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For firmer cookies perfect for decorating, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling.
• Substitute almond extract for vanilla to add a nutty flavor.
• Decorate with royal icing or colored sugar sprinkles for festive occasions.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds if you prefer warm cookies.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit additional salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Rolling the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness ensures a good balance between soft and crisp textures once baked.

Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 126 reviews

Classic Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat perfect for any occasion. These soft, buttery cookies have a delicate sweetness and a light vanilla flavor, making them ideal for decorating or enjoying plain. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, they bake up crisp on the edges and tender in the center.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps achieve the perfect texture for the cookies.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, incorporating moisture and flavor.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, blending until a soft dough forms without overmixing.
6. Roll and Cut Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness, then cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
7. Arrange and Bake: Place cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheets spaced apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges turn lightly golden.
8. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, ensuring optimal texture.

Notes

• For softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly.
• Chilling the dough before rolling can help with easier handling and prevent spreading during baking.
• Decorate cookies after they have fully cooled to avoid melting frosting or decorations.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.

Keywords: classic sugar cookies, vanilla cookies, holiday cookies, easy sugar cookies, buttery cookies