Making sugar cookies recipe is one of my favorite baking activities, especially during the holiday season. Soft, sweet, and perfect for decorating, sugar cookies are a treat that warms my heart and puts a smile on my face. Since the recipe is easy to follow, even beginners can join in the fun.
Ingredients for Sugar Cookies Recipe
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: colored sugars and icing for decorating
How to Make Sugar Cookies Recipe
Now, let’s follow some straightforward steps to prepare these delightful cookies.
1. Prepare Your Kitchen
First, make sure your kitchen is clean and organized. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to make cleanup easy.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key for creating a tender cookie.
3. Add the Egg and Extracts
Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you’re using it). Beat again until everything is well combined. The extracts add wonderful flavor that enhances the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a nice mix to ensure that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cookies tough.
6. Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the butter, resulting in cookies that hold their shape when baked.
Rolling and Cutting the Dough
After chilling, it’s time to roll out the dough. Here’s how:
7. Roll Out the Dough
Flour your work surface lightly to prevent sticking. Divide the dough into two portions, keeping half in the fridge while you work with the other half. Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
8. Cut Out Shapes
Use cookie cutters to cut out your favorite shapes. Place the cut cookies onto the lined baking sheets. If your dough is too soft to hold shapes, pop it back into the fridge for a little longer.
Baking the Cookies
Let’s move on to the baking step.
9. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. You want them to be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; every oven varies slightly.
10. Cool the Cookies
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set so they’re easier to decorate.
Decorating Your Sugar Cookies Recipe
Now comes the exciting part decorating! You can keep it simple or get creative.
11. Icing and Sprinkles
Once the cookies are cool, it’s time to decorate. Use royal icing or your favorite frosting to spread on top of the cookies. Add colored sugars, sprinkles, or edible glitter to make them festive.
12. Storage Tips
If you have any cookies left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. You can freeze unbaked cookies for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when ready.
Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies Recipe
To ensure these cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room temperature eggs blend better.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing spreading.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.
- Use Quality Baking Ingredients: Using high-quality butter and flour can really elevate the cookies.
Can I Use Brown Sugar?
You can substitute some granulated sugar with brown sugar. Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor and makes the cookies softer.
What If My Cookies Spread Out Too Much?
If your cookies spread too much, it’s likely the dough was too warm or you didn’t chill it long enough. Next time, chill your dough for longer.
How Do I Know When Cookies Are Done?
Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center when you take them out. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I Make Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely. Substitute traditional flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
Making sugar cookies from scratch is a delightful experience. The joy of rolling, cutting, baking, and decorating with loved ones creates wonderful memories. This basic sugar cookie recipe provides a fantastic foundation for your baking adventures. Whether you keep them simple or turn them into elaborate works of art, sugar cookies are always a hit. Enjoy your sweet creations and share them with family and friends. Happy baking!