Classic sugar cookies are like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery cookie that melts in your mouth, leaving behind a hint of sweetness and the aroma of vanilla wafting through the air. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing during holidays, gatherings, or just because you need a pick-me-up after a long day of adulting.
Growing up, my kitchen was often filled with laughter and flour as we baked classic sugar cookies. My mom had this secret technique for ensuring they were perfectly soft yet slightly crisp at the edges. Now, every time I make them, I’m transported back to those joyful moments where the smell of fresh cookies filled the house and melted all my worries away.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These classic sugar cookies are easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- The flavor is buttery and sweet with a hint of vanilla that will leave you craving more.
- With their golden edges and soft centers, these cookies look irresistibly appealing on any dessert table.
- They are versatile enough to be decorated for any occasion or enjoyed plain with a glass of milk.
My friends still rave about how they can’t resist these cookies once they taste them; it’s always a hit at parties!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cookies; it provides structure while keeping them tender.
Granulated Sugar: The star ingredient that sweetens your cookies and gives them that delightful crunch.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for controlled seasoning; it adds richness and flavor to your dough.
Eggs: One large egg binds your ingredients together and adds moisture to create that desirable texture.
Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise perfectly without being too dense.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract elevates the flavor profile to heavenly heights.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing out the sweetness beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Classic Sugar Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. This ensures that when you place those delicious morsels inside, they start baking right away for an even texture.
Mixing the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes should do it. Add in one egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients to form a smooth dough; be careful not to overmix.
Shaping Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets about two inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.
Baking Time: Bake in your preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them; nobody likes burnt cookies!
Cooling Down: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them set without falling apart while still warm.
These classic sugar cookies are sure to bring joy whether you enjoy them plain or dressed up with icing and sprinkles!
You Must Know
- Classic sugar cookies are a timeless treat that brings smiles to any gathering.
- Their buttery aroma fills the kitchen, evoking memories of baking with loved ones.
- These cookies are perfect for decorating or enjoying plain, making them a versatile favorite.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best classic sugar cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in eggs and vanilla before gradually adding flour and baking soda. This order ensures a smooth dough without lumps.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your classic sugar cookies by adding lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking for festive flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store your classic sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to reheat them, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore freshness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using room temperature ingredients helps create that perfectly blended dough consistency.
- Make sure to chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out; this prevents spreading while baking.
- Lastly, experiment with different cookie cutters for fun shapes!
Baking these classic sugar cookies reminds me of childhood afternoons spent with my grandma, who always said that the secret ingredient was love (and maybe a little extra butter).
FAQ
What is the best way to decorate classic sugar cookies?
Use royal icing or simple powdered sugar glaze to achieve beautiful designs on your cookies.
Can I freeze classic sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months; just thaw it overnight before baking.
How do I prevent my sugar cookies from spreading?
Chill the dough before baking and ensure your baking sheets are cool when placing the cookies on them.
Classic Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies are a nostalgic delight, offering a soft, buttery texture and a hint of vanilla that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion, from festive celebrations to casual get-togethers, these cookies are sure to evoke warm memories with every bite. Easy to make and simply delicious, they can be enjoyed plain or decorated with icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients to form a smooth dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Customize your cookies by adding lemon zest or almond extract for unique flavors. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading. Use royal icing or powdered sugar glaze for beautiful decorations.
