The Best Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy with every bite. With their delicate sweetness and slight crunch, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make them an ideal recipe for bakers of all levels. Get ready to fill your home with a delightful aroma as you create these charming cookies!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150 calories
- Protein: 1g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 22g per serving
- Fat: 7g per serving
- Fiber: 0g per serving
- Sugar: 10g per serving
- Sodium: 60mg per serving
Why Make This Best Sugar Cookies
These Best Sugar Cookies are not only a classic, but they are also incredibly versatile. The buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweetness, making them irresistible. Ideal for decorating with frosting or sprinkles, they can easily transition from a simple cookie to a festive centerpiece for any event. Moreover, they’re easy enough that even novice bakers will find success, allowing you to create delightful treats that will impress family and friends alike.
How to Make Best Sugar Cookies
Creating the Best Sugar Cookies requires just a few simple steps. Let’s dive into the preparation process!
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for rolling
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly right from the start.
Step 2: Mixing
In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this dry mixture aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
Step 3: Cooking
Take rounded teaspoonfuls of the dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the additional sugar for a sweet coating. Place them onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving space between each ball, and flatten each cookie slightly using the bottom of a glass.
Step 4: Finishing
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn a light golden color. Once baked, let them cool on wire racks to achieve the perfect texture.
How to Serve Best Sugar Cookies
These sugar cookies are delightful when enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they also shine at gatherings and parties. Serve them on a decorative platter alongside a cup of milk or tea. For festive occasions, try piping icing or adding colorful sprinkles for a playful touch.
How to Store Best Sugar Cookies
To keep your Best Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to one week. If you want to prolong their lifespan, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Best Sugar Cookies
- Always use softened butter for the best texture. You can leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you begin.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a bit of citrus zest to the dough. Lemon or orange can add a delightful twist.
- Keep an eye on your cookies as baking times can vary based on your oven and cookie size.
- Experiment with different sugar types for rolling; try brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet twist.
- Spiced Sugar Cookies: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of spice.
- Lemon Sugar Cookies: Mix in the zest of one lemon and a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a refreshing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but if you do, adjust the added salt in the recipe to 1/2 teaspoon to avoid overly salty cookies. - Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, sugar substitutes like erythritol or coconut sugar can be used; however, the texture and flavor may vary slightly. - What’s the best way to ensure cookies don’t spread too much?
Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape. - Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! After they cool, you can decorate them with frosting, icing, or sprinkles for added flair. - Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Just bake them a couple of minutes longer straight from frozen.
Conclusion
The Best Sugar Cookies can be a delightful addition to any dessert table or a simple treat to enjoy at home. Their inviting aroma and sweet, buttery flavor are sure to create lasting memories. Whether you enjoy them plain or add your own creative flair, this recipe is a fantastic way to spread joy and sweetness. So roll up your sleeves and bake a batch today—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
The Best Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A timeless treat that brings warmth and joy with every bite, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extracts. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients until combined.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls. Roll each ball in additional sugar. Place on ungreased cookie sheets, leaving space between each ball, and flatten each cookie slightly.
- Bake in preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until light golden. Let cool on wire racks.
Notes
For best texture, use softened butter. Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
