These Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies are buttery, sweet, and perfect for rolling out and cutting into fun shapes. Whether I decorate them with colorful icing or sprinkle them with sugar, these cookies are ideal for holidays or any festive occasion. The simple yet flavorful dough makes these cookies a go-to treat all year round.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The dough is versatile and perfect for creating fun shapes with cookie cutters.
The buttery, slightly crispy edges balance beautifully with the soft center.
These cookies are easy to customize with icing, sprinkles, or flavor variations.
I can make them ahead of time and store them for later use.
They’re a crowd-pleaser for holidays, parties, or simple weekend baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Directions
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. The dough should be soft but manageable.
Chill Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Roll and Cut Out Cookies: Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to create shapes, then place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Roll in Sugar: Roll the edges of the cookies in the extra granulated sugar for added sweetness.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Decorate and Serve: Once cooled, decorate the cookies as desired and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
Servings: Approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size and shape.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour for chilling).
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes per batch.
Variations
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest for a citrusy flavor.
Spiced Sugar Cookies: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced version.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour to make the cookies gluten-free.
Chocolate Dip: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let them set for an extra indulgent treat.
Sprinkle Mix-In: Stir colorful sprinkles directly into the dough for a festive twist.
Storage/Reheating
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before decorating.
Reheating: While these cookies are best enjoyed fresh, I warm them for a few seconds in the microwave if I prefer them slightly warm.
Related Recipes:
- Brown Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Raspberry Swirl Shortbread Cookies
- Soft Christmas Cookies
FAQs
Can I skip chilling the dough?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll and cut into shapes without sticking or losing definition.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading?
Make sure to chill the dough properly and avoid overworking it. Also, ensure the baking sheet isn’t warm when placing the dough.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but I would reduce the added salt in the recipe or omit it entirely.
What type of icing is best for decorating?
Royal icing works well for intricate designs, while buttercream is great for a more rustic, colorful finish.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I often make the dough up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. I let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.
Conclusion
These classic rolled sugar cookies are a delightful treat that never goes out of style. With their buttery sweetness and customizable design, they’re perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply a fun baking day. I love how easy they are to make, store, and share with loved ones. Whether I’m decorating them with intricate designs or keeping them simple, these cookies are always a hit.
📖 Recipe:
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Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Create irresistible classic rolled sugar cookies that are buttery, sweet, and perfect for festive occasions. This versatile recipe is ideal for shaping, decorating, or enjoying plain with a hint of vanilla and almond.
Ingredients
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp almond extract (optional)
¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat butter and sugar until fluffy, 2–3 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Combine Dough: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients. Mix until combined.
- Chill Dough: Divide dough, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
- Roll and Cut: Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters.
- Roll in Sugar: Dip edges in granulated sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are golden. Cool before decorating.
Notes
Chill dough to prevent spreading.
Customize with royal icing or buttercream for decoration.
Add zest or spices for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 24 cookies
