Name: ☁️ Heavenly Sugar Cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 1/2 cups (560 g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 1/2 cups (560 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: 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 incorporates air and ensures soft, tender cookies.

Step 2: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Milk and Vanilla

Mix in the milk (or cream) and vanilla extract. The dough will appear very soft and creamy at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can toughen the cookies.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover and refrigerate the dough for 1–2 hours. Chilling is essential for shaping and helps the cookies bake thick and fluffy.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Scoop dough into large balls and gently flatten slightly. Place cookies 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, until cookies are set and the tops appear matte. Do not allow browning.

Step 9: Cool and Frost

Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting or decorating.

Notes

Do not overbake—cookies should remain pale and soft.
Chilling the dough is non-negotiable for best texture.
Use full-fat milk or cream for richness.

Handle dough gently to maintain airiness.