Imagine biting into a sugar cookie so incredibly soft and delicate, it practically melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery richness. These bakery-style soft baked sugar cookies are not just a treat; they're an experience that transports you to a cozy café corner, where every bite feels like a warm, sugary hug. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality cookies that will have your family and friends begging for more!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- unsalted butter
- granulated sugar
- brown sugar
- eggs
- vanilla extract
- all-purpose flour
- baking soda
- salt
- sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially butter and eggs, to create a smooth, well-incorporated dough.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat until light, fluffy, and pale in color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and mix until completely combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix to maintain cookie tenderness.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to enhance flavor and prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Remove chilled dough and use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion into
- 5-inch balls.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to create a sparkling, crisp exterior.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers appear soft and slightly underbaked.
- Remove from oven and let cookies rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, maintaining their soft, bakery-style texture.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use room temperature ingredients, especially butter and eggs, to ensure smooth mixing and optimal cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dough just until ingredients are combined to keep cookies tender and soft.
- Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading and intensifies flavor.
- Sugar Rolling Trick: Roll cookies in granulated sugar before baking for a beautiful, sparkling exterior that adds a delightful crunch.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies when edges are just golden and centers look slightly underbaked - they'll continue setting as they cool.
- Proper Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their soft, bakery-style texture for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 167kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
