Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe
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
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
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- 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.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, incorporating moisture and flavor.
- 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.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, blending until a soft dough forms without overmixing.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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