Name: Soft Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ⅛ cups (300g) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon fine salt; 1 cup (2 sticks/227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar; ¾ cup (85g) powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar, for rolling

Indulge in the pure joy of baking with our delectable Soft Sugar Cookies recipe. Perfectly balanced between softness and chewiness, these cookies are bound to become your new favorite treat. Simple to make yet bursting with flavor, they’re ideal for any occasion, from cozy evenings at home to gatherings with loved ones. Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade cookies with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Ingredients:

2 ⅛ cups (300g) all-purpose flour

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon fine salt

1 cup (2 sticks/227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar

¾ cup (85g) powdered sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar, for rolling

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine salt. Set aside for later use.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy, which typically takes around 3-4 minutes. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment for this step.

4. Add Egg and Vanilla:

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, infusing the mixture with rich flavor and a hint of sweetness.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. It’s essential not to overmix the dough to maintain the desired soft texture of the cookies.

6. Shape the Cookies:

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into 1.5-tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar to coat it completely, adding a delightful crunch and sweetness to the exterior.

7. Bake:

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. Gently press each ball down slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm to flatten them slightly.

8. Bake Until Golden:

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden. The centers should still appear soft and slightly underbaked, ensuring a perfectly tender texture.

9. Cool and Serve:

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy these irresistible soft sugar cookies with a glass of milk or a soothing cup of tea for a delightful sweet treat!

Serving Tips:

Freshly Baked Delight: Serve these Soft Sugar Cookies warm from the oven for the ultimate indulgence. The aroma of freshly baked cookies will entice everyone around, making them impossible to resist.

Pairing Perfection: Accompany these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic and comforting combination. The creamy texture of milk perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Afternoon Delight: Enjoy these cookies with a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. The subtle sweetness of the cookies pairs wonderfully with the warmth of your favorite beverage, making it the perfect pick-me-up.

Creative Presentation: Get creative with your serving presentation by arranging the cookies on a decorative platter or cookie jar. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a touch of elegance, or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent twist.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain the cookies’ freshness and prevent them from becoming stale.

Freezing Option: If you want to extend the shelf life of your cookies, you can freeze them for future enjoyment. Place the completely cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen cookies can last for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing Instructions: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen cookies at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until they reach your desired consistency. For a quick thaw, you can also microwave individual cookies for a few seconds until warmed through.

Reheating Option: To revive the cookies’ soft texture and enhance their flavor, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will help freshen up the cookies and restore their delightful chewiness.

Related Recipes:

Old Fashioned Fudge

FAQs:

Can I Substitute Ingredients in the Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can make substitutions based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability. For example, you can use margarine instead of butter, or a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version. However, keep in mind that ingredient substitutions may alter the texture and flavor of the cookies slightly, so experiment cautiously.

How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soft Texture in These Sugar Cookies?

To ensure soft and tender cookies, avoid overmixing the dough once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop gluten in the dough, resulting in a tougher texture. Additionally, be careful not to overbake the cookies; they should be removed from the oven when the edges are just set and the centers appear slightly underbaked.

Can I Make the Cookie Dough Ahead of Time and Refrigerate or Freeze It?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days or freeze it for longer storage. If refrigerating, tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Before baking, let the dough come to room temperature for easier scooping and shaping. When freezing, portion the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw frozen dough in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How Do I Prevent the Cookies from Spreading Too Much During Baking?

To prevent excessive spreading, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature but not melted. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking can also help solidify the butter and prevent spreading. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheets and ensure there is enough space between the dough balls to allow for spreading. Finally, using parchment paper or silicone baking mats can help create a barrier between the dough and the baking sheet, reducing spreading.

Conclusion:

With just a few simple steps, you’ve created a batch of Soft Sugar Cookies that are sure to steal the spotlight at any gathering. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or simply savored on their own, these cookies are a testament to the joy of homemade baking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a baking adventure that promises sweet moments and unforgettable flavors. After all, there’s nothing quite like the magic of homemade cookies to brighten your day and warm your heart.

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