Easy Sugar Cookies

Name: Easy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481633H45M46S
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter or margarine, softened; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

Isabella

🌟Life, Love, and Gastronomy 🍷

Jump to Recipe

Looking for a simple yet delicious cookie recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? These easy sugar cookies are a classic treat, offering a crispy edge and soft center, making them ideal for decorating or enjoying on their own. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday or just craving something sweet, these sugar cookies are sure to please everyone. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of cookies that taste homemade and melt in your mouth!

Ingredients:

1 cup butter or margarine, softened

1 cup sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheets:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the ideal temperature for a soft center with a crisp, golden edge. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Cream Together Butter and Sugar:

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter and sugar. Mix until it becomes light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is essential for achieving the soft texture of the cookies.

Add Egg and Vanilla Extract:

Once your butter and sugar are fully creamed, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and well incorporated. The egg will help bind the ingredients together, while the vanilla enhances the flavor.

Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the cookies rise to perfection.

Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. It’s important to mix gently to avoid overworking the dough, which could lead to tough cookies.

Shape the Cookies:

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. For a more festive touch, you can flatten the balls and use cookie cutters to create fun shapes.

Bake the Cookies:

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on the size of the cookies and your oven. For soft cookies, don’t overbake them.

Cool and Decorate (Optional):

Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. After they’ve cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain—either way, they’re irresistible!

Serving Tips:

Presentation: If you’re serving these sugar cookies for a special event, you can plate them on a decorative dish and garnish with extra sprinkles or icing for an added touch of color. For a festive look, arrange them in fun shapes or use themed cookie cutters.

Pairing Suggestions: These cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of drinks. Serve them with a glass of milk, coffee, or a hot chocolate for a comforting treat. They also pair well with tea, especially for an afternoon snack.

Decorating Options: Get creative with decorating! You can add colorful icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter for a fun, eye-catching finish. If you’re making them for a specific holiday, try using holiday-themed cookie cutters (like hearts for Valentine’s Day or stars for Christmas).

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store your sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. When properly sealed, they’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week. Just make sure to keep the cookies in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing for Later: If you have a lot of cookies or want to save some for later, you can freeze them! Arrange the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

Layering Cookies: If you’re stacking cookies in a container, place a layer of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.

Reheating Tips:

If you prefer your sugar cookies warm, you can easily reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), and bake for about 3-5 minutes until heated through. This will help restore their fresh-from-the-oven taste and texture.

Related Recipes:

Soft and Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

FAQs:

Can I use margarine instead of butter for these sugar cookies?

Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter in this recipe. The cookies will still turn out delicious, but butter typically provides a richer flavor and slightly softer texture. If you’re using margarine, choose one that is designed for baking to ensure the best results.

How can I make these sugar cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help with the cookie’s structure. You may need to adjust the amount of flour slightly depending on the brand you use.

Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Absolutely! If you’d like to prepare the dough ahead of time, you can freeze it. After making the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out and baking as usual.

How do I make my sugar cookies softer?

To make your sugar cookies softer, be careful not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are lightly golden, as baking them longer will make them crispier. Additionally, you can add an extra tablespoon of butter to the dough for an even softer texture.

Conclusion:

This easy sugar cookie recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With its simple ingredients and straightforward directions, you can make a batch of soft, buttery cookies in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these sugar cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share them with loved ones—or keep them all to yourself!

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe: