Are you ready to discover the most mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies that will have everyone begging for your recipe? These classic American treats are not just cookies – they're pure joy baked to golden perfection! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this foolproof recipe will transform your kitchen into a delightful bakery that fills the air with the most incredible sweet aroma you can imagine.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature, especially the butter and egg.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined and free of lumps.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on medium speed until fully incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour to help prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball between your palms to create a smooth, uniform shape.
- Place the cookie dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or enjoy as is.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always use room temperature butter and egg for the smoothest, most consistent dough. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and tough cookies.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dough just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop gluten and make your cookies tough instead of tender.
- Chill Your Dough: The refrigeration step is crucial! Chilling helps prevent spreading and ensures your cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even baking, giving you perfectly golden edges every time.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: Every oven is different. Start checking your cookies at 9 minutes to prevent over-browning. They should be just golden at the edges.
- Cool Completely: Let cookies cool entirely before storing to maintain their crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
- Get Creative with Decorations: While delicious plain, these cookies are a perfect canvas for royal icing, sprinkles, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
