These easy sugar cookies are a classic treat I like to make when I want something simple, sweet, and comforting. They’re soft, lightly crisp around the edges, and perfect on their own or decorated for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it uses basic pantry ingredients and comes together quickly. The dough is easy to work with, and the cookies bake up tender every time. I also enjoy how versatile they are, since I can keep them plain or dress them up with icing or sprinkles.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
egg
vanilla extract
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
Directions
I start by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, I cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. I mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, I combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
I scoop or roll the dough into small balls, place them on the baking sheet, and gently flatten them. I bake the cookies until the edges are lightly golden, then let them cool on a wire rack.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 24 cookies from this recipe.
Preparation time is around 10 minutes.
Baking time is about 10 minutes per batch.
Total time comes to roughly 20 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes roll the dough in sugar before baking for extra sparkle. When I want more flavor, I add lemon zest or almond extract. I also like pressing sprinkles or sanding sugar on top before baking for a festive look.
Storage/reheating
I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If I want them slightly warm, I reheat them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds.
FAQs
Can I chill the dough before baking?
I can chill the dough if I want thicker cookies, but I usually bake them right away.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
I find this happens if the butter is too soft or the dough is overmixed.
Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?
I freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months and bake them straight from frozen with a slight increase in baking time.
Can I decorate these cookies?
I like decorating them with icing, glaze, or sprinkles once they’ve cooled completely.
Can I make these cookies softer?
I keep them slightly underbaked and store them in an airtight container to maintain softness.
Conclusion
These easy sugar cookies are a recipe I love because they’re reliable, simple, and always satisfying. Whether I keep them plain or decorate them, they’re a sweet treat I enjoy baking again and again.
