Take your baking to the next level with our easy sugar cookie recipe. These treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to casual get-togethers. With just a few ingredients, you can make soft, chewy cookies that everyone will love.
Our recipe is great for both experienced and new bakers. It’s easy to follow and produces cookies with the perfect balance of flavors. These cookies are a classic comfort food that will make your family and friends happy.
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 granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 tablespoons milk
1/4 cup sugar (for rolling)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Add the milk and mix until the dough is soft but not sticky.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar. Place on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal per cookie | Servings: 24 cookies
Key Takeaways
- Easy sugar cookie recipe with just 3 main ingredients
- Yields a good batch size of 34 cookies
- Cookies bake in 14-16 minutes for a perfect golden finish
- Dough can be frozen for up to 2 months for convenient baking
- Recipe appeals to novice bakers and those looking for a simple activity
What Are Easy Sugar Cookies?
Easy sugar cookies are a classic treat made with just a few pantry items. They are simple to make and fun to decorate. These cookies have a soft, buttery texture and a sweet taste. They’re perfect for decorating and enjoying.
A Quick and Delicious Cookie Recipe
The easy sugar cookie recipe is a go-to for many bakers. It’s quick to make and always a hit. With ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla, you can whip up a batch fast. Your family and friends will love them.
Pantry-Friendly Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Baking powder
- Salt
Easy sugar cookies are loved for their simplicity. They use common pantry items, making them easy on the budget. They’re great for any occasion, from holidays to cozy afternoons.
“Easy sugar cookies are a timeless classic that never fail to bring a smile to people’s faces. The simple, no-fuss recipe makes them a joy to bake and share with loved ones.”
Ingredients Needed for Easy Sugar Cookies
Making delicious easy sugar cookies is easy with just a few ingredients you likely have at home. You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking powder, fine sea salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, a large egg, an egg yolk, and pure vanilla extract. These ingredients come together to make a classic cookie that’s sweet and flavorful.
All-purpose flour gives the cookies structure. Baking powder makes them light and airy. Fine sea salt adds to the flavor. Unsalted butter brings a rich, creamy taste, and granulated sugar adds sweetness. The egg and egg yolk help hold the dough together. Vanilla extract adds a nice aroma to the cookies.
These ingredients are probably already in your pantry, making this recipe perfect for quick, pantry-friendly baking. With just a few simple, sugar cookie ingredients, you can make a batch of tasty, easy cookie recipe whenever you want.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Fine Sea Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter, softened | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Large Egg | 1 |
| Egg Yolk | 1 |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
With these simple, sugar cookie ingredients, you’re all set to bake a batch of delicious, easy cookie recipe that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making easy sugar cookies is easy and fun. Here are the steps to follow for perfect cookies.
Making the Cookie Dough
Start by mixing 1 cup of softened butter with 1 1/2 cups of sugar until fluffy. Add 1 egg and 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, mix 3 cups of flour and 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
Slowly add the dry mix to the wet mix until a dough forms.
Forming the Cookies
Use a 3-tablespoon scoop to make dough balls. Roll each ball in sugar and put them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Press them down slightly with your hand.
Baking to Perfection
Heat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until they’re set and lightly golden. Let them cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then move them to a wire rack to cool fully.
| Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|
| 354g | 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour |
| 300g | 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar |
| 226g | 1 cup unsalted butter |
| 132 calories | per serving |
Follow these easy steps to make delicious sugar cookies. Enjoy baking and tasting the yummy results!
Tips for Perfect Easy Sugar Cookies
Baking easy sugar cookies can be simple with a few key tips. Using the right cookie scoop and controlling the dough thickness are essential. These tips will help take your sugar cookies to the next level.
Using a Cookie Scoop
Using a cookie scoop is a secret to uniform, evenly-baked sugar cookies. A 3-tablespoon capacity scoop is perfect. It makes sure each cookie is the same size, baking evenly and keeping their shape.
Controlling Cookie Thickness
It’s also important to control the dough thickness. Make the dough balls about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick before baking. This makes the cookies soft and chewy in the middle and crispy on the edges.
By using these tips, you can make perfect easy sugar cookies every time. They’re great to bake and share.
Decorating Easy Sugar Cookies
Make your homemade sugar cookie decorating a fun holiday activity! Easy sugar cookies are perfect for showing off your creativity. You can use classic sprinkles or try intricate royal icing designs. Decorating these treats is just as fun as baking them.
Adding color to your festive cookies is easy by rolling the dough in sprinkles before baking. This gives them a crunchy texture and bright look. You can also shape the dough into fun shapes and frost them with creamy icing.
For a more detailed look, try royal icing. This frosting dries hard and shiny, letting you create beautiful designs. With practice, your cookies can look like professional artwork.
“Decorating sugar cookies is a joyful way to add a personal touch to your baking. The possibilities are endless – from simple sprinkles to detailed piping, each cookie can become a unique expression of your creativity.”
Decorating easy sugar cookies is a great way to be creative. Let your inner artist out and make something special. With basic supplies and a bit of imagination, you can make sugar cookie decorating masterpieces that everyone will love.
Easy Sugar Cookies Nutritional Information
Easy sugar cookies are a treat that’s not too bad for you. They have a good balance of calories and nutrients. Each cookie has about 51 calories, 10 grams of carbs, 5 grams of fat, and 1 gram of protein.
These cookies use common ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla. They’re a low-calorie way to satisfy your sweet cravings. Plus, you can make about 24 cookies, so you can enjoy a few without worrying about calories.
| Nutrient | Per Cookie |
|---|---|
| Calories | 51 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 28 mg |
| Sodium | 53 mg |
| Potassium | 30 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Vitamin A | 247 IU |
| Calcium | 9 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
These easy sugar cookies are a healthy treat when eaten in moderation. They have a simple recipe and aren’t too high in calories. Enjoy them as a sweet treat with your family or friends.
Storing and Freezing Easy Sugar Cookies
Homemade easy sugar cookies can be enjoyed for a long time with the right storage. You can keep them fresh and even freeze them for later. This way, you can enjoy their sweet taste whenever you want.
How to Store Easy Sugar Cookies
Unfrosted easy sugar cookies can stay fresh at room temperature for 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container and don’t stack them. Use parchment paper between layers. If you frost the cookies, keep them in the fridge for 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezing Easy Sugar Cookies
For longer storage, you can freeze easy sugar cookies for up to 3 months. Here’s how:
- Put unfrosted cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1 hour until firm.
- Then, move the cookies to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Use parchment paper to separate the layers.
- When you want to eat them, thaw the cookies in the fridge overnight.
You can also freeze the cookie dough. Make dough balls, roll them in sugar, and put them on a baking sheet. Freeze them until they’re firm, then move them to a container or bag. To bake, thaw the dough in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Unfrosted Cookies at Room Temperature | Up to 3 days |
| Frosted Cookies in the Refrigerator | Up to 5 days |
| Frozen Cookies | Up to 3 months |
| Frozen Cookie Dough | Up to 3 months |
By using these tips for storage and freezing, you can enjoy delicious easy sugar cookies for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Sugar Cookies
Starting your sugar cookie baking adventure might bring up some questions. Let’s tackle some common ones about these tasty treats.
Can this recipe be used for cut-out cookies?
This sugar cookie recipe is great for drop-style cookies. You just scoop the dough and put it on the baking sheet. It’s not the best for cut-out cookies because the dough is too soft. It won’t keep its shape well when cut and moved.
Can the cookies be frosted or decorated?
Yes, you can definitely decorate these sugar cookies. You can frost them with buttercream or cream cheese frosting. Then, add sprinkles, sanding sugar, or other fun toppings to make them your own.
How long do the cookies last?
These cookies can stay fresh for up to 3 days if kept in an airtight container at room temperature. For even longer freshness, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Can the dough be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the sugar cookie dough for up to 2 months. First, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze it until it’s firm. Then, move it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, put it straight from the freezer in the oven. Just add a minute or two to the baking time.
| Frequently Asked Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can this recipe be used for cut-out cookies? | No, the easy sugar cookie recipe is designed for drop-style cookies, not cut-out cookies. |
| Can the cookies be frosted or decorated? | Yes, the sugar cookies can be frosted with buttercream or cream cheese frosting and decorated with sprinkles or other toppings. |
| How long do the cookies last? | The cookies can last up to 3 days stored at room temperature in an airtight container, or up to 3 months in the freezer. |
| Can the dough be frozen? | Yes, the sugar cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or bag. |
These easy sugar cookies are a versatile treat. You can customize them for any occasion or just a cozy afternoon. They’re sure to bring joy to everyone who tries them.
Variations on the Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
The classic easy sugar cookie recipe is a great start, but you can make it even better. By adding different flavors, mix-ins, and decorations, you can make many sugar cookie variations. These changes make the cookies perfect for any event or taste.
Try using different extracts like almond, lemon, or peppermint instead of vanilla. Adding citrus zest or spices like cinnamon can also make the cookies more interesting. This way, you can enjoy a unique flavored cookies experience.
Adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts can make the cookies more fun. These customizable recipes let you make the cookies your own. They’re great for holidays, celebrations, or just because.
Get creative with cookie shapes and decorations too. Use cookie cutters for festive shapes like hearts or Christmas trees. Then, decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or edible decorations. The options for sugar cookie variations are endless!
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Whether you like classic tastes or want to try new ones, the easy sugar cookie recipe is a great base. It lets you make customizable recipes that will please your taste buds and impress everyone.
The History of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies have a rich history that goes back to the 7th century in Persia. These simple treats moved to Europe and then to America, becoming a favorite. Over time, the recipes and methods changed, but the core of these cookies stayed the same.
In the 1800s, the term “sugar cookie” was used to distinguish them from other types of cookies. By the 1920s, these cookies became chewier, showing a change in how people enjoyed food. The 1950s saw a switch to using shortening, making the cookies softer and more delicate.
Butter came back in the early 1980s, making the cookies even more like the ones we love today.
Over the last 20 to 30 years, sugar cookies have grown and changed. Now, you can find them in many shapes, flavors, and decorations. Every summer, we celebrate National Sugar Cookie Day to honor this sweet treat.
The sugar cookie is thought to have started in the mid-1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Recipes for these cookies began to show up in the 1800s. In 1885, The Boston Globe shared a recipe with one cup of sugar to half a cup of butter.
In the late 1950s, Pillsbury started selling pre-mixed sugar cookie dough in stores across the US.
German Protestants created sugar cookies, and they spread all over the world. Over time, the recipe changed, making the cookies more tasty and popular. Today, sugar cookies are still a favorite, enjoyed by people everywhere.
“Sugar cookies have a long and storied history, with origins that can be traced back to the 7th century in Persia.”
Easy Sugar Cookies for Holiday Baking
Easy sugar cookies are a holiday baking classic. This recipe, first shared in 2014, has become a favorite for festive times. It gets a 5-star rating from readers for its soft centers and crisp edges, perfect for decorating and eating.
This recipe is simple. It needs just 7-8 pantry staples and only 1-2 hours to chill the dough. After baking, decorate them with vibrant icing that dries soft. This makes them great for gifts, transport, and freezing.
These cookies are perfect for any holiday, from Christmas to Valentine’s Day. They make about 2 dozen 3-inch cookies, great for big gatherings or gifts. Add them to your holiday baking list for a delightful treat.
Decorating Your Easy Sugar Cookies
Decorating these cookies is the fun part. The icing recipe is easy, with just a few ingredients. It dries soft, so you can pipe, swirl, or drizzle designs without worry. Top them with sprinkles or other festive decorations.
You can choose any colors for the holidays. Get the family involved for a fun decorating session. It’s a great way to make holiday memories together.
Kid-Friendly Easy Sugar Cookies
Baking with kids is fun and rewarding. The easy sugar cookie recipe is great for family fun. It’s simple to make, perfect for little helpers.
Kids will enjoy making these kid-approved treats. They can roll the dough into balls and flatten them. Then, they can decorate the cookies with sprinkles or candies.
This recipe is perfect for kids starting to bake. It’s easy to follow and quick to prepare. The result is delicious cookies that everyone will love.
“Baking with my kids is always a fun and rewarding experience. The easy sugar cookie recipe is a hit with my little ones – they love rolling the dough and decorating the cookies. It’s a great way to spend quality time together and create delicious, kid-approved treats.”
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| Prep Time | Cook Time | Chilling Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 minutes | 20 minutes | 15 minutes | 1 hour | 24 cookies |
The easy sugar cookie recipe is great for family-friendly cookies. It’s easy to make and fun for kids. It’s a perfect way to get kids involved in baking and make easy baking for kids they’ll love.
Comparing Easy Sugar Cookies to Other Cookie Recipes
Easy sugar cookies are special because they are easy to make and have a unique taste. They don’t need to chill for a long time and have a crunchy texture. Unlike shortbread, they are chewy inside. And, they don’t need to be refrigerated before baking, unlike drop cookies.
A study with about 28 friends tested different sugar cookie recipes. The top recipes came from King Arthur Flour, America’s Test Kitchen, and In Katrina’s Kitchen. The favorite frostings were from Serious Eats, In Katrina’s Kitchen, and King Arthur Flour.
The study showed that King Arthur Flour’s recipe needed 2 hours to chill. Sally’s Baking Addiction’s cookies were thin and had a crunchy edge with a soft middle. America’s Test Kitchen used a special creaming method and cream cheese for a unique texture.
| Cookie Recipe | Chilling Time | Texture | Taster Feedback |
|---|---|---|---|
| King Arthur Flour | 2 hours | – | Top 3 cookie, Top 3 frosting |
| America’s Test Kitchen | – | Reverse creaming, cream cheese | Top 3 cookie |
| In Katrina’s Kitchen | – | – | Top 3 cookie, Top 3 frosting |
| Sally’s Baking Addiction | – | Thin, buttery, crunchy edges, soft middle | – |
| Sweetapolita | Time-consuming chilling | Hard, lacking in flavor | – |
| All Recipes | – | Slightly puffy, plain flavor, vaguely cakey and dry | – |
| Annie’s | – | Soft, but lacked chewiness, powdery and less flavorful | – |
| Martha Stewart | – | Too hard, chewy, and dense | Least favorite |
All tasters agreed that buttercream frosting makes sugar cookies better. Ashlee’s recipe, with lots of lemon zest, was a hit, along with the author’s recipe. Each had its own special texture.
In summary, easy sugar cookies are unique because of their texture, quick chilling time, and versatility. They are different from traditional sugar cookies but still delicious and easy to make. This makes them a great choice for home bakers.
Easy Sugar Cookies for Beginners
If you’re new to baking or just starting with cookies, this easy sugar cookie recipe is perfect for you. It has a simple list of ingredients, easy steps, and doesn’t take long to prepare. This recipe is a great way to start your baking journey.
Making the dough, shaping the cookies, and baking them is easy. These beginner cookie recipes are great for anyone wanting to improve their easy baking skills. The simple cookie instructions help even new bakers get great results.
Beginner-Friendly Ingredients
This recipe uses common ingredients like flour, baking soda, salt, butter, sugar, powdered sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. These beginner cookie recipes are easy to follow, letting you start easy baking with confidence.
Simple Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, including flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Scoop the dough and roll it in sugar before baking.
- Bake the cookies until they are golden and delicious.
Following these simple cookie instructions, even beginners can make beginner cookie recipes that look great.
Endless Customization Possibilities
After getting the hang of the basic recipe, you can try different things. Add sprinkles or make sandwich cookies with frosting. These beginner cookie recipes are a great way to get creative and improve your easy baking skills.
So, if you’re new to baking, start with the easy sugar cookie recipe. It’s simple, has beginner cookie recipes, and easy baking steps. Soon, you’ll be making delicious cookies like a pro.
Conclusion
Easy sugar cookies are a classic recipe that always turns out great. This guide covered the key ingredients, how to make them, and tips for baking perfect cookies. They’re perfect for holidays, special events, or just a sweet treat.
These cookies have a buttery, sweet taste and a soft, chewy feel. They’re easy to make and can be decorated for any event. With over 613 shares and 1,000 five-star reviews, they’re a favorite among many bakers.
To make these delicious cookies, just follow the steps and use the helpful tips. Get your ingredients ready, heat the oven, and start baking. Enjoy making these classic, loved cookies in your kitchen.
FAQ
Can this recipe be used for cut-out cookies?
No, this recipe is for drop-style cookies, not cut-out ones.
Can the cookies be frosted or decorated?
Yes, you can frost them with buttercream or cream cheese frosting. You can also decorate with sprinkles or other toppings.
How long do the cookies last?
You can keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can the dough be frozen?
Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just scoop it into balls, roll them in sugar, and freeze before baking.