Sugar Cookies: 5-Step Delicious, Easy Recipe

Table of Contents

• Craving the Perfect Sugar Cookie? Look No Further!
• Why This Recipe Will Be Your Go-To
• Gather Your Ingredients for These Easy Sugar Cookies
• 5-Step Instructions for the Best Sugar Cookies Ever!
• Tips, Tricks, and Variations
• Serving Suggestions

There is nothing quite like the buttery, sweet perfection of classic sugar cookies. This simple, 5-step recipe is your new secret weapon for creating soft, chewy cookies with crisp edges that are perfect for decorating or enjoying plain. Forget complicated steps; this guide is all about getting delicious results with minimal fuss. These are the ultimate homemade sugar cookies for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a birthday party, or just a Tuesday afternoon craving, this foolproof recipe delivers every single time. Get your aprons ready, because we’re about to bake some magic!

Craving the Perfect Sugar Cookie? Look No Further!

We’ve all been there: you follow a recipe to the letter, only to have your cookies spread into thin, crispy messes or turn out tough and bland. It’s frustrating! This recipe is designed to eliminate that guesswork. The key is a balanced ratio of ingredients and one crucial step: chilling the dough.

This process ensures your sugar cookies hold their shape beautifully, giving you the perfect canvas for decorating. The result is a tender, flavorful cookie that tastes as good as it looks. See others recipes here to find more baking inspiration!

Why This Sugar Cookies: 5-Step Delicious, Easy Recipe Will Be Your Go-To

What makes this the best easy sugar cookie recipe? It’s all about simplicity and reliability. We use basic pantry staples, so you can likely whip these up right now without a trip to the store. The dough comes together in minutes and is incredibly forgiving.

Plus, the flavor is second to none. A generous amount of pure vanilla extract gives these cookies a warm, bakery-quality taste that will have everyone coming back for more. This is the foundational recipe you’ll use for years to come.

Gather Your Ingredients for These Easy Sugar Cookies

A great cookie starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create these wonderful treats.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 ¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

5-Step Instructions for the Best Sugar Cookies Ever!

Follow these five simple steps for perfect cookie success. The magic is in the method, especially creaming the butter and sugar properly. For an in-depth explanation of this crucial technique, check out this guide on the science of creaming butter and sugar.

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix!
3. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 days). This step is essential and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
4. Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour a work surface and your rolling pin. Roll the chilled dough out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate them with icing and sprinkles as desired!

Tips, Tricks, and Variations for Amazing Sugar Cookies

Want to take your cookies to the next level? Try adding a ¼ teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla for a classic bakery flavor. For a hint of citrus, add the zest of one lemon to the butter and sugar mixture.

If your dough becomes too soft while rolling, don’t hesitate to pop it back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. Keeping the dough cold is the secret to perfectly shaped sugar cookies. This is a great tip for holiday cookies when you are making many batches.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Sugar Cookie Experience

These versatile cookies are perfect on their own with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They are the star of any cookie platter and make wonderful gifts when packaged in a festive tin. For a fun activity, set up a decorating station with various icings, sprinkles, and candies for kids (and adults!) to customize their own treats.

Foire Aux Questions

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dough is perfect for making in advance. You can wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough disc for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.

Why did my sugar cookies spread so much in the oven?

The most common reason for cookies spreading is that the dough was too warm before baking. Chilling the dough for at least one hour is crucial to help the butter solidify, which prevents spreading. Also, ensure your butter is softened but not melted when you start, and avoid over-mixing the dough once the flour is added.

What is the best icing for decorating these sugar cookies?

It depends on the look you want! For intricate designs that harden completely, a classic royal icing is the best choice. If you prefer a softer, fluffier topping, a simple buttercream frosting works beautifully. For a quick and easy glaze, you can whisk powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract until you reach your desired consistency.