Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create delightful treats that are easy to customize and decorate.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Step 2: Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Step 3: Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes. Place the cookies on an ungreased baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
- Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Step 5: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading during baking.
- Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar for a festive touch.
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in a low oven for a few minutes to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can substitute margarine, butter provides better flavor and texture for sugar cookies. If you do use margarine, choose one with a high fat content for best results.
How do I prevent my sugar cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure the dough is well-chilled before rolling and cutting. Also, avoid using too much butter and flour your work surface lightly when rolling out the dough.
PrintClassic Sugar Cookies Recipe
Classic sugar cookies that are buttery, soft, and perfect for any occasion. These simple homemade cookies come together with basic ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, eggs, and vanilla, and are rolled and cut into shapes before baking to a delightful golden finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 23-25 minutes
- Yield: 24 medium-sized cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookie Dough:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough out evenly to about ¼ inch thickness. Be sure to flour the rolling pin occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cut the Cookies: Using cookie cutters of your choice, cut the rolled dough into shapes. Transfer the cutouts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking for soft cookies.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy as is, or decorate as desired once cooled.
Notes
- For crispier cookies, bake a minute or two longer until the edges are golden brown.
- You can chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to make cutting easier and to prevent spreading.
- Customize cookies by adding sprinkles or decorating with icing after baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Keywords: sugar cookies, classic cookies, homemade sugar cookies, easy cookie recipe, buttery cookies, vanilla sugar cookies
