Description
These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweetened, making them the best treat for any occasion. Easy to bake and decorate, they feature a tender crumb with a slight crisp edge – ideal for cookie lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For Rolling and Decoration
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add egg and extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Form the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar to coat.
- Place on baking sheet: Arrange the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.
- Cool: Remove from the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake by removing them at the 8-minute mark.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- You can add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for a flavor twist.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help retain shape and improve texture.
- Almond extract is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
