Classic Sugar Cookies
Classic Sugar Cookies are soft and chewy, buttery, and versatile for any celebration. Learn how to make this timeless treat with simple ingredients and simple steps.
Classic Sugar Cookies are the ultimate sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion! These cookies boast a perfectly soft and chewy texture, with a delightful buttery flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. They’re easy to make, making them an ideal option for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy baking day at home.
Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Perfect for Every Occasion. These classic sugar cookies can be enjoyed plain or decorated with colorful icing, making them versatile for any celebration, from birthday parties to holidays.
- Quick and Simple to Make. With just a few staple ingredients, these delightful cookies come together in no time. Perfect for novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike!
- Fun for Everyone! Kids love rolling out the dough and using cookie cutters, and the whole family can join in decorating, creating lasting memories together.
Ingredients for Classic Sugar Cookies
Save- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookie, providing its structure and chewiness.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and creates a crisp exterior.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds flavor and richness; be sure to use softened for easy mixing.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise and become soft and chewy.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Salt: Boosts flavor and balances the sweetness of the sugar.
How to Make Classic Sugar Cookies
Save- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well until a soft dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
- Gently press the tops of the cookies slightly to flatten them, and sprinkle with additional granulated sugar if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips for Making Classic Sugar Cookies
- Ensure Butter is Softened: This step is crucial for creaming it with sugar to create a fluffy dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Customize with Sprinkles or Icing: Get creative by adding colorful sprinkles or icing on top for a festive touch!
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the dough ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Roll and shape the cookies, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing Classic Sugar Cookies
- To freeze baked cookies, arrange them in a single layer and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen cookie dough can be thawed overnight in the fridge before baking, allowing freshness at any time.
Reheating Classic Sugar Cookies
- To reheat, place the cookies on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
- This method will refresh the cookies, reintroducing that soft and chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Milk Chocolate Chip Cookies
- M&M Cookies
FAQs
Can I freeze cookie dough?
Yes, cookie dough can be frozen for several months. Just roll it into balls and freeze before placing in a bag.
How should I store sugar cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
What kind of sprinkles can I use?
You can use any type of sprinkles—colored, nonpareils, or sanding sugar—based on your preference.
Why are my cookies flat?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough before baking to maintain shape.
What’s the best way to decorate sugar cookies?
You can use royal icing for precise designs or buttercream for a thicker coat; both are delicious!
Try these recipes next!
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Snickerdoodles
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat and prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add egg and vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Mix until dough forms
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape dough
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten and sugar
Gently press the tops of the cookies to flatten slightly and sprinkle with extra sugar if desired.
Bake
Bake 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Ensure Butter is Softened for easier creaming.
- Don’t Overmix once you add the flour.
- Decorate with sprinkles or icing as desired.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
What is the yield for Classic Sugar Cookies?
This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
Can I chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and improves flavor.
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Yes. Freeze the shaped dough for up to 3 months, or freeze baked cookies for longer storage.
What is the best way to decorate sugar cookies?
Decorate with royal icing or simple frosting; icing can be tinted with colors and sprinkles added for festivity.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may vary slightly.
