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Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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