Introduction

Sugar Cookies are one of the most timeless and beloved cookies in home baking. Simple, buttery, and perfectly sweet, they are the foundation of countless holiday traditions, family memories, and everyday treats. With their soft texture and rich vanilla flavor, classic sugar cookies are incredibly versatile—delicious on their own, decorated with icing, or dressed up with sprinkles and sanding sugar.

What makes sugar cookies so special is their simplicity. Made with basic pantry staples, they rely on proper technique rather than complicated ingredients. When done right, sugar cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and full of buttery vanilla goodness. They’re sturdy enough for decorating yet tender enough to melt in your mouth.

This particular recipe creates sugar cookies that hold their shape well, making them ideal for rolling, cutting, or baking as drop cookies. They’re perfect for holidays like Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day, and birthdays—but they’re just as wonderful for everyday baking when you want something comforting and classic.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make perfect Sugar Cookies step by step, along with variations, tips, and serving ideas to help you customize them to your taste and occasion.

Ingredients:

• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preparation :

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial for achieving soft, tender cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add Vanilla Extract

Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps prevent spreading and improves flavor.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Roll dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Lightly flatten with the bottom of a glass or fork.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops appear slightly puffed but not browned.

Step 10: Cool

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variation

🎄 1. Decorated Sugar Cookies
Roll dough and cut into shapes, then decorate with royal icing or buttercream.

🍋 2. Lemon Sugar Cookies
Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice for citrus flavor.

🍪 3. Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies
Top cooled cookies with vanilla frosting and sprinkles.

🍫 4. Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies
Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate.

🌈 5. Sprinkle Sugar Cookies
Roll dough balls in colored sugar before baking.

COOKING Note :

• Chilling the dough is essential for best results.
• Do not overbake—cookies should stay pale.
• Use room-temperature butter for proper creaming.
• Cookies will firm up as they cool.

Serving Suggestions :

• Serve with milk, coffee, or tea
• Add to holiday cookie trays
• Decorate for themed parties
• Package for gifting
• Enjoy as an everyday dessert

Tips :

• Measure flour correctly to avoid dry cookies.
• Chill dough longer for sharper cookie shapes.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store dough in the fridge if working in batches.
• Let cookies cool fully before decorating.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

12 minutes

Total Time:

32 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information :

(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: ~190
Protein: ~2 g
Sodium: ~95 mg

FAQs

1. Why did my sugar cookies spread too much?

Dough may not have been chilled long enough.

2. Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Are these cookies soft or crisp?

They are soft with lightly set edges.

4. Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, they store well and taste great the next day.

5. How long do sugar cookies last?

Up to 5 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Classic Sugar Cookies are a must-have recipe for every baker. With their buttery flavor, soft texture, and endless decorating possibilities, they’re perfect for any occasion—from holiday celebrations to simple everyday treats. Easy to make and universally loved, these sugar cookies will quickly become a go-to favorite in your baking collection.

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