Sugar cookies are a timeless treat that never goes out of style. These Easy Sugar Cookies are crisp around the edges, soft in the center, and ideal for decorating. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just a cozy night in, this classic sugar cookie recipe is sure to be a hit. Let’s walk through the recipe step-by-step and cover tips, variations, and ways to decorate these delightful cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Sugar Cookie Recipe
These sugar cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here’s what makes them special:
- Simple Ingredients: You only need pantry staples, making it a go-to recipe for a quick treat.
- Soft and Buttery Texture: The cookies are tender on the inside with a subtle crunch around the edges.
- Perfect for Decorating: This dough holds its shape well, making it ideal for cut-out cookies.
- Customizable: Add sprinkles, icing, or food coloring to make them unique for any occasion.
Ingredients for Easy Sugar Cookies
To make these Easy Sugar Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup butter or margarine, softened: This gives the cookies a rich, buttery flavor and tender texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slightly crisp edge.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder and gives the cookies structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavor.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just a bit, keeping them light.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. This ensures that the cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it helps create a tender, delicate texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until fully incorporated. The egg provides structure and richness, while the vanilla adds depth of flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed in the dough, resulting in even rising.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 6: Form Cookies
For classic round cookies, roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If you’d like to make shaped cookies, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness and use cookie cutters to create shapes.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. For softer cookies, take them out of the oven as soon as you see the edges turn golden; for crispier cookies, bake for an extra minute or two.
Step 8: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking and ensures they cool evenly.
Step 9: Decorate (Optional)
Once the cookies have cooled, you can decorate them as you like. Use icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar for a festive touch. If you prefer plain sugar cookies, they’re delicious as is!
Tips for Making Perfect Sugar Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and a room-temperature egg will mix more evenly, creating a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, mix just until the dough comes together to avoid a dense texture.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft, you can refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Check for Doneness Early: Sugar cookies can overbake quickly. Watch closely and remove them as soon as the edges start to turn golden.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
How Do I Store Sugar Cookies?
Store cooled sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months.
Can I Use Salted Butter?
If you only have salted butter on hand, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half. The slight saltiness can actually enhance the flavor of the cookies.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: Approximately 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
Fun Variations to Try
- Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of lemon extract for a refreshing twist.
- Almond Sugar Cookies: Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies: Once baked, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.
- Holiday-Themed Cookies: Use food coloring to dye the dough or add sprinkles for festive occasions.
Decoration Ideas
- Royal Icing: Mix powdered sugar with a little milk or water to create a smooth icing. You can add food coloring to make it festive.
- Sprinkles and Colored Sugar: Press sprinkles onto the dough before baking or add them to wet icing for a pop of color.
- Drizzled Chocolate: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an elegant touch.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are a few ideas for enjoying them:
- As a Classic Treat: Enjoy them plain or with a cup of tea or coffee.
- With Ice Cream: Serve sugar cookies alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- For Holiday Gatherings: Decorate them with icing and sprinkles to match the holiday theme.
Final Thoughts
Easy Sugar Cookies are a classic recipe that everyone should have in their baking repertoire. This simple yet delicious cookie is versatile enough for any occasion, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them plain, decorated, or with your favorite flavors added in, these sugar cookies are sure to become a favorite. Bake a batch today and indulge in the sweet simplicity of this timeless treat!
