Description
These Best Easy Sugar Cookies are classic, buttery treats perfect for any occasion. Soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, they come together quickly with simple ingredients and are great 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 even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air for tender cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until the ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Form Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar for a pretty, textured finish.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or decorating.
Notes
- For softer cookies, do not overbake; remove from oven as soon as edges are lightly golden.
- You can add sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking for a festive touch.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a different flavor, try adding almond extract instead of vanilla.
- If dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
