Name: 🍪 Classic Sugar Cookies
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

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

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.

Notes

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.