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Sugar Cookies Recipe

What are cookies?sugar cookiesWhat are sugar cookies? What are the ones that are soft, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious? Forget those dry, crumbly discs you sometimes get – these are a whole different ballgame. What are some of the best ways to enjoy a warm Chocolate Chip Cookie? What are some of the best sugar cookie flavors? My grandma’s recipe was good, but I spent years tweaking it, testing it and finally, perfecting.What is a sugar cookie recipe? is a keeper!

Sugar Cookies Recipe final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is sugar cookie?

A Sugar Cookie is, at its heart, a pleasure. What is a cookie made from sugar, flour, butter, eggs and vanilla? Think of it as the blank canvas of the cookie world. It’s essentially a sweet, buttery foundation that’s perfect on its own, but even better when dressed. How do you make a simple glaze? Why is sugar a key ingredient? What are sugar cookies? Pure, clean sweetness of granulated sugar shine through. Is it that simplicity that makes them so endlessly versatile and loved by everyone, from toddlers to teenagers? seasoned bakers

Why you’ll love this recipe?

How do I begin to make this recipe?

  • Flavor: These sugar cookiesHave a beautiful, delicate sweetness that’s not overpowering. The vanilla really shines through, and the slight tang from the cream of tartar gives them this this. What is the depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more?
  • Simplicity:What are some of the easiest recipes to make? I’ve streamlined the process so even beginner bakers can whip up a batch with confidence. No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required.
  • Cost-All ingredients are pantry staples – flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla. You probably already have most of them on hand! What is a good recipe for savoury treats without breaking the bank?
  • Versatility:Is this where this is?Sugar cookies recipe.What are some of the best holiday cutouts with sprinkle of sugar? Can you customize the frosting with different colors and flavors, add sprinkles, or even dip them in water? What are the possibilities?

What I love about this recipe is how reliable it is. I’ve made it countless times, and it always comes out perfectly. What are some of the best crowd-pleaser recipes? Plus, the smell of these cookies baking fills the entire house with such a warm, comforting aroma.

How do you make sugar cookies?

Quick Overview

Making these sugar cookiesFirst, you’ll cream together the butter and sugar, then add the eggs and vanilla. How do you gradually incorporate dry ingredients into a recipe? The dough chills for a bit (don’t skip this! ), then you roll it out, cut out your shapes, and bake until golden brown. What is the best part about a glaze? Is the dough hard to handle? How do I feel like a pro in no time?

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookies: For sugar cookies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature. This is important! Cold butter will make the dough too stiff.
  • 1 12 cups granulated sugar. I’ve tried reducing the sugar, but this is the perfect amount for sweetness and texture.
  • 2 large eggs. Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
  • What is the best vanilla extract to use?
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour. Spoon and level the flour for accurate measuring.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder. This helps the cookies rise and become soft.
  • 12 teaspoon baking soda. For a nice golden color.
  • What is the secret ingredient in cream of tartar? What makes these cookies so chewy?
  • 14 teaspoon salt. Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.

For the Glaze:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar. Sift it for a smoother glaze.
  • 14 cup milk. Add more or less to reach your desired consistency.
  • 12 teaspoon vanilla extract. Optional, but it adds a nice touch.
  • Food coloring (optional). For fun and festive cookies!

Sugar Cookies Recipe ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do I get the

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do I clean cookies? I always cut the parchment paper to fit the baking sheet perfectly – it just looks neater!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cream of tartar, and salt. Set aside. Whisking ensures that the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is important for the texture of the food.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? I like to scrape down the sides of a bowl occasionally to make sure everything is evenly mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sugar.

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Should the dough be soft and slightly sticky?

Step 5: Chill the Dough

What is the best way to wrap dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes? How do you chill Cookie Dough? I sometimes chill it for even longer – up to a few hours if I’m not ready to bake right away.

Step 6: Roll Out & Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 14 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Re-roll the scraps and cut more cookies. I like to use cookie cutter shapes for a fun and festive platter. I love to decorate my own.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them – they can burn quickly!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. To cool completely. While cookies are cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency. Once the cookies are completely cool, dip them in the glaze or drizzle it over the top.

Step 9: Decorate & Enjoy

Decorate glazed cookies with sprinkles, sanding sugar, or other decorations. Let the glaze set before serving.sugar cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

What to Serve It With

These sugar cookies are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

  • For Breakfast: Enjoy a sugar cookie with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day. They are especially good with a latte!
  • For Brunch: Serve a platter of decorated sugar cookies at your next brunch gathering. They add a touch of elegance and are always a hit with guests. Pair them with mimosas or a fruit platter.
  • As Dessert: These cookies are the perfect after-dinner treat. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of milk. They are also delicious with a cup of hot chocolate on a cold night.
  • For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a sugar cookie as a simple and satisfying snack anytime of day. They are especially comforting when paired with a warm blanket and a good book. My kids love to have them after school with a glass of juice.

My family has a tradition of making these sugar cookies every Christmas. We spend an entire afternoon baking and decorating them together. It’s one of my favorite memories, and I hope this recipe helps you create your own special traditions.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Sugar Cookies

Want to take your Sugar Cookie game to the next level? Here are some of my top tips for baking perfection:

  • Butter Softening: Make sure your butter is properly softened to room temperature. It should be soft enough to easily press your finger into, but not melted. This is crucial for creaming it properly with the sugar. I always take mine out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking.
  • Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears.
  • Chill Time is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and makes them easier to roll out. I’ve tried skipping it when I’m in a rush, and I always regret it.
  • Rolling Technique: Roll out the dough evenly to about ¼ inch thickness. If the dough is too thin, the cookies will be crispy. If it’s too thick, they’ll be doughy. Use a rolling pin with thickness rings to ensure even thickness.
  • Baking Sheet Rotation: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to ensure that the cookies bake evenly. Ovens can have hot spots, so rotating the pan helps to compensate.
  • Glaze Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the glaze to reach your desired consistency. If the glaze is too thick, it will be difficult to spread. If it’s too thin, it will run off the cookies. I like a glaze that’s thick enough to coat the cookies evenly but thin enough to spread easily.
  • Ingredient Swaps: I’ve tested this recipe with various substitutions! Almond milk works great in the glaze and adds a nutty flavor. For a richer cookie, you can use half brown sugar and half granulated sugar.
  • Glaze Variations: Get creative with your glaze! Add a few drops of food coloring for festive cookies, or flavor it with different extracts, such as almond, lemon, or peppermint.

I learned the hard way that overbaking these cookies is a recipe for disaster. They should be lightly golden brown around the edges, but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to bake a little bit as they cool on the baking sheet. I set a timer and check them frequently during the last few minutes of baking.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Want to keep your sugar cookies fresh and delicious? Here’s how to store them properly:

  • Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of cookies.
  • Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, store the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving. I find this keeps them soft and chewy for longer!
  • Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, it’s best to freeze them without the glaze. Add the glaze after they’ve thawed for the best results.

I always let my cookies cool completely before storing them. Storing warm cookies can trap moisture, which can make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results. The texture might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious! Start with a 1:1 replacement ratio.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
This recipe does not use zucchini!
Can I make this as muffins instead?
This recipe does not make muffins.
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar by ¼ cup. You can also substitute some of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener, such as maple syrup or honey, but keep in mind that this will change the flavor and texture of the cookies slightly.
What can I use instead of the glaze?
If you don’t want to use a glaze, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar or sanding sugar. You can also dip them in melted chocolate or drizzle them with a chocolate ganache. For a simpler option, just leave them plain! They’re still delicious without any topping.

Final Thoughts

Sugar Cookies Recipe slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

I truly hope you give this sugar Cookies Recipe a try! It’s one of my most treasured recipes, and I know you’ll love it as much as my family does. They are the perfect treat for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to simple weeknight desserts. The flavor is incredible, the recipe is easy to follow, and the cookies are just so darn cute! If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other cookie recipes for more sweet inspiration. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out, so leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends.

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Sugar Cookies Recipe

Sugar Cookies Recipe

Classic sugar cookies, perfect for holidays or any day! These buttery cookies are easy to make and decorate.
Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
  • 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder
  • 0.5 tsp Salt

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
  • Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  • Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Decorate with frosting and sprinkles as desired.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

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