Classic Sugar Cookies

Name: Classic Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

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Discover the joy of baking with this Classic Sugar Cookies recipe! These soft and buttery cookies feature a tender crumb that’s perfect for decorating or simply enjoying on their own. Whether you’re planning a festive occasion or just want a sweet treat, this easy-to-make recipe is your go-to for delicious sugar cookies.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup granulated sugar

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.

Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough forms.

Roll and Cut the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your preferred shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Decorating: Once cooled, these cookies are ready to be decorated with royal icing, sprinkles, or enjoyed plain for a simple, classic treat.

Serving Tips:

Presentation: For a festive touch, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or tiered stand. You can also place them in a cookie jar for a charming display.

Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or coffee. They also make a sweet addition to holiday parties or gatherings.

Decorating: If you’ve decorated your cookies with icing or sprinkles, consider serving them as a part of a dessert spread. The decorated cookies can be a fun activity for kids or a lovely centerpiece for special occasions.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their softness and freshness.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Avoiding Staleness: To prevent the cookies from becoming stale, include a slice of bread or a small piece of apple in the container. These items will help absorb moisture and keep the cookies soft.

Refrigeration: If you live in a very humid area, you may choose to refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from becoming too soft. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Related Recipes:

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

FAQs:

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to omit the additional salt in the recipe. Using salted butter will alter the flavor slightly, but it still works well in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of flour?

All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe to achieve the best texture. However, if you need to use a different type of flour, such as gluten-free flour, you may need to adjust the amount or add a binding agent to ensure the cookies hold together.

How can I make my sugar cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your sugar cookies, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract or citrus zest (like lemon or orange). These additions can give your cookies a unique twist and additional depth of flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply portion the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to bake, place the dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Conclusion:

These Classic Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to everyday snacking. With their soft, buttery texture and tender crumb, they offer a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try this recipe today and indulge in the timeless pleasure of homemade sugar cookies!

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