Soft, buttery sugar cookies with crisp edges are a timeless treat that I can whip up for any occasion. This Best Easy Sugar Cookies is quick, easy, and delivers the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether it’s for holidays, celebrations, or a simple sweet craving, these cookies are a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These sugar cookies are incredibly easy to make with basic pantry ingredients.
The combination of soft centers and crisp edges creates a delightful texture.
Perfectly customizable with sprinkles, frosting, or other decorations.
Ready in just 20 minutes, ideal for last-minute baking needs.
Freezes well, so I can enjoy them any time with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. For a decorative touch, I flatten the dough slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Makes 24 cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
Variations
Frosted Sugar Cookies: Add your favorite frosting and sprinkles once cooled for a festive touch.
Citrus Twist: Mix in 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a burst of fresh flavor.
Holiday Decor: Use food coloring in the dough or festive cookie cutters to fit seasonal themes.
Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a fun variation.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: For a freshly baked taste, warm the cookies in the microwave for 5-10 seconds.
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FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature before rolling and baking.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
If I use salted butter, I reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This could happen if the butter is too warm. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
Avoid overbaking and store the cookies with a slice of bread in the container to maintain softness.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! I can double or even halve this recipe easily to fit my needs.
Conclusion
These easy sugar cookies are a foolproof recipe that delivers every time. Soft, buttery, and endlessly versatile, they’re perfect for everything from holiday baking to everyday treats. I love how simple they are to make and how delightful they are to share. Give them a try—I’m sure they’ll become a favorite in no time!
📖 Recipe:
Print
Best Easy Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, buttery, and easy to make, these sugar cookies are the perfect balance of crisp edges and tender centers. Whip up this versatile recipe in just 20 minutes for any occasion—holidays, celebrations, or an everyday sweet craving.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar for a decorative touch.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For extra softness, avoid overbaking.
Chilling the dough for 30 minutes prevents excessive spreading.
To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120 kcal
