Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

I absolutely love this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re baking with the kids, prepping for a holiday party, or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies come together quickly and taste like they’ve been lovingly crafted by an expert baker. I remember the first time I whipped up this batch, I was amazed at how soft and tender the cookies turned out with just a few simple pantry staples.

You’ll find that this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe is incredibly forgiving, which makes it a fantastic go-to for both beginners and seasoned cookie lovers alike. Plus, it’s versatile—you can tuck in festive sprinkles, roll them in sugar, or frost them for an extra special touch. Believe me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your baking rotation just like they are in mine!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are classic, baking essentials that work together beautifully to create the soft, sweet flavor that defines the Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe. Here’s a little breakdown of why each one is important and what you should look for when shopping.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, providing structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Baking soda: Helps your cookies rise, giving them a light texture without being cakey.
• Baking powder: Adds a little extra lift and fluff, which balances perfectly with the baking soda.
• Butter (softened): I always use unsalted butter to control salt levels and ensure a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• White sugar: For that classic sweetness and a slight crispness on the edges.
• Egg: It binds the dough and adds richness to the cookies.
• Vanilla extract: This little addition amps up the flavor and makes the cookies irresistibly aromatic.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Over the years, I’ve tested out a few variations that add extra fun or fit different dietary needs. Feel free to try these or come up with your own twists!

• Sprinkle-topped sugar cookies: My kids love rolling the dough balls in colored sugar before baking—it adds a festive crunch and pop of color.
• Frosted sugar cookies: After the cookies cool, I spread on a simple homemade vanilla frosting for birthdays and holidays, and it never disappoints.
• Gluten-free option: Try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend—just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
• Flavor twists: Adding lemon zest or almond extract instead of vanilla gives a new flavor punch that’s surprisingly delightful.

How to Make Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix Your Dry Ingredients

Before you get your hands messy, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a small bowl. This helps ensure the raising agents are evenly distributed for consistent cookies every time.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. I like doing this step really well because it helps make the cookies tender and gives them that delicate crumb we all love. It usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. This step adds moisture and flavor that brings the cookie dough to life. Use room temperature egg for best results to prevent the dough from curdling.

Step 4: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients

Now comes the gradual blending of the flour mixture you prepared earlier. I find that adding it bit by bit and mixing gently helps prevent overworking the dough—which can make cookies tough. Mix just until you no longer see dry flour.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place them at least 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. This little spacing hack keeps the cookies from merging as they spread. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are just turning golden. I like to pull them slightly before they get too brown because they continue to set on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool briefly right on the baking sheet—it helps them firm up without losing softness. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If you frost them, wait until they are fully cooled to avoid melting the icing.

How to Serve Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling these sugar cookies with colored sanding sugar before baking for a subtle sparkle that everyone notices. Sometimes, I’ll top them off with a drizzle of simple glaze or colorful royal icing when I’m feeling festive. Freshly grated lemon zest on the frosting also adds a burst of brightness.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a classic glass of cold milk or your favorite cup of tea. For a fun twist, I sometimes serve them alongside fruit preserves or nut butters to dip in. They’ve even been a hit with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a casual dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re taking these Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe treats to a party, try stacking them with a bit of parchment paper between layers inside a pretty tin. Decorating them with edible glitter or shaped cutters can make a festive impact. For holidays, adding themed sprinkles or small fondant shapes can really wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

My go-to method for storing leftover sugar cookies is an airtight container at room temperature. This usually keeps them fresh for up to a week without losing their soft texture. I recommend placing a slice of bread in the container—it helps maintain moisture perfectly.

Freezing

I’ve had great luck freezing both baked sugar cookies and raw dough balls! For baked cookies, just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. For dough, roll into balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. When you’re ready, bake dough straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive leftover cookies, I pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave briefly for 10-15 seconds. This warms them up and refreshes the soft, chewy texture—just don’t overdo it or they’ll dry out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe a try because it’s one of those nostalgic sweets that never fails to bring smiles around my kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat but special enough to share with loved ones during holidays or celebrations. Trust me, once you master this recipe, you’ll be reaching for it over and over whenever sugar cookie cravings strike—just like I do!

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