Description
This Best Easy Sugar Cookies recipe offers a simple yet delicious treat perfect for any occasion. With a rich buttery flavor and a tender, soft texture, these cookies are easy to prepare with basic pantry ingredients. They bake up beautifully golden with a slight crisp on the edges and a melt-in-your-mouth center, ideal for decorating or enjoying plain.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined, creating a smooth dough base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar to add a decorative sparkle and a slight crunch on top.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden color, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or decorating.
Notes
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; remove them when edges are just golden.
- If you prefer firmer cookies, extend baking time by 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid overbaking.
- You can chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping for thicker cookies.
- Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats for best non-stick results.
- Add sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking for a festive touch.
