There’s something special about Sugar Cookies that always brings my family right to the kitchen table. It started when my youngest asked for a simple treat after school one afternoon. She wanted something sweet but not too fancy, something that felt like a little hug in cookie form. So, I pulled out my tried-and-true classic sugar cookies recipe, and within no time, the whole family was chattering and nibbling around the kitchen island.
What makes these Sugar Cookies a keep-in-the-rotation favorite is how they strike the perfect balance between soft sugar cookies and that just-right hint of crispness on the edges. They aren’t complicated to make, which means I don’t stress during busy weeknights. Plus, they invite a variety of sugar cookie decorations—whether it’s sprinkles, colored sugar, or icing. That little bit of decorating turns baking into a fun activity we all enjoy.
Over the years, I’ve discovered how this easy sugar cookies recipe fits our family’s needs perfectly. It’s quick to mix, forgiving if the dough needs a little extra chill time, and yields tons of smiles. Sugar cookies have become more than a treat—they bring my family together with every batch. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple, delicious, and sure to make your kitchen buzz with warmth, give this Sugar Cookies recipe a try and see how it brightens your family’s moments too.
What You’ll Need
For the best Sugar Cookies, it’s all about simple, quality ingredients you can find at your regular grocery store without hunting down anything fancy. Here’s the ingredient lineup that keeps this Sugar Cookies recipe both easy and tasty.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – This gives structure to your dough. I prefer bleached flour for the soft sugar cookies texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps your sugar cookie dough rise just enough.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder – Works with baking soda for that light, tender crumb.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Soft butter creates the soft sugar cookies texture my family loves.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Sweetness without overpowering the classic sugar cookie flavor.
- 1 large egg – Helps bind everything together.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – This is a game-changer for flavor. My family notices when I skip it!
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
You can swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract if you want to try a subtle twist. Also, if softened butter isn’t handy, you can use melted butter but your sugar cookie dough might spread a bit more, so watch the oven closely.
If you want to play with sugar cookie decorations, I keep sprinkles, sanding sugar, and simple royal icing on hand. They add a festive touch if you’re making these Sugar Cookies for holidays or celebrations.
Here’s a Sugar Cookies secret that makes all the difference: chill your sugar cookie dough for at least an hour before rolling. It makes the dough easier to handle and keeps the cookies soft and thick after baking.
How to Make It
Making these Sugar Cookies is straightforward and well worth the effort. Follow these steps, and I promise you’ll gain confidence in making soft sugar cookies every time.
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to keep your sugar cookies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This dry mix is the backbone of your sugar cookie dough.
- Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy. This usually takes me about 3 minutes on medium speed with a hand mixer. You’ll notice how fluffy and inviting your sugar cookies dough gets here.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat again until everything blends well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low until combined. Your sugar cookie dough might look a bit crumbly but it will come together when you press it.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour. This step is key for easy rolling and helps the sugar cookies keep their shape.
- When ready, roll your sugar cookie dough onto a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. If your dough gets too soft, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Use cookie cutters or a glass to cut out shapes and place them on the lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Add sugar cookie decorations now if you want—sprinkles, sanding sugar, or anything you love.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know your sugar cookies are ready when the edges are just starting to turn golden, but the centers are still soft.
- Let the sugar cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
Here’s where I used to mess up my Sugar Cookies—skipping the chill time. Once I started chilling the sugar cookie dough, rolling and cutting became simple, and the cookies held their soft sugar cookies texture perfectly.
While your Sugar Cookies are baking, your kitchen will smell like vanilla and sweet butter heaven—a sign of a meal win in progress!
How your sugar cookies look can vary a bit—that’s normal! Some will have a slightly cracked top and soft centers, which means you nailed them.
Serving Ideas
This Sugar Cookies recipe has been a star on many occasions. My family loves serving it with a glass of cold milk or as a sweet treat during afternoon snack time.
For celebrations, sugar cookie decorations turn these into festive treats that everyone enjoys. I’ve served them at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and even casual weekends when we want something quick and soft but special.
If you want to try something a little different, spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on cooled soft sugar cookies or add a dusting of cinnamon sugar before baking for a cozy twist. Everyone reaches for seconds when this Sugar Cookies comes out with a little frosting or sprinkle sparkle.
Leftover Sugar Cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If there are any leftovers—which is rare in my house!—they’re great crumbled over ice cream or yogurt for a quick dessert upgrade.
Variations we enjoy include swapping vanilla for lemon zest or dipping half the cookie in melted chocolate. Those are favorites among the kids and grown-ups alike.
If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy other cookie favorites like our frosted heart sugar cookies or the snowy delight of cinnamon sugar snowball cookies.
Your Questions Answered
I know Sugar Cookies raise lots of great questions from home cooks, so here’s a handful of answers I’ve gathered from my kitchen and readers like you.
Can I make this Sugar Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be prepared and chilled up to 3 days in advance. You can also freeze the rolled dough for later, just thaw in the fridge before baking.What if I don’t have baking powder for my Sugar Cookies?
You can leave out baking powder, but your sugar cookies might be a bit denser. The baking powder helps give that soft sugar cookies texture without being cakey.How do I store leftover Sugar Cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.Can I make my sugar cookie dough vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Try swapping the butter for coconut oil or dairy-free margarine and replace the egg with a flax egg. The texture will be softer but still delicious.How do I keep my Sugar Cookies soft?
Chilling the dough and not overbaking is key. Remember, pull them out when edges are set but centers look soft.Is it okay if my sugar cookie dough is sticky?
Sticky dough is normal when using softened butter. Dust your surface with flour and chill the dough if it feels too sticky to work.Can I decorate Sugar Cookies with royal icing?
Definitely! For step-by-step help, you can check out recipes like the best cut out sugar cookie recipe with royal icing tips.
You can find more tips and variations on Sugar Cookies from trusted baking sites like The Best Sugar Cookies (Recipe & Video) – Sally’s Baking, or take a peek at the classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe.
The Final Word
This Sugar Cookies recipe has truly earned a special spot in my collection. It’s simple enough to whip up on busy days, yet special enough to celebrate with. Soft sugar cookies, easy sugar cookie dough handling, and plenty of room for sugar cookie decorations give this recipe its magic.
My Sugar Cookies Tips:
– Chill your sugar cookie dough well—this makes rolling and cutting a breeze.
– Don’t overbake. Pull them from the oven when the edges just start to turn golden.
– Experiment with extracts like almond or lemon to personalize your batch.
Three variations have become family hits: lemon zest-infused sugar cookies, chocolate-dipped soft sugar cookies, and sugar cookies topped with a light cream cheese frosting. My kids love the lemon zest for a tangy change, while my husband enjoys the classic soft sugar cookies with chocolate dip.
I hope you find this Sugar Cookies recipe as heartwarming and satisfying as my family does. It’s a wonderful way to gather your household for something sweet, simple, and full of love. Happy baking, and don’t forget to check out our frosted heart sugar cookies or the cozy gingerbread crinkle cookies for more family-friendly treats. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies with a soft, buttery texture and just the right amount of sweetness, perfect for any occasion or holiday treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until dough is soft but not sticky.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place onto prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar, or decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles.
- Bake 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are golden. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
For a festive touch, try adding lemon zest to the dough or dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate for extra flavor.