Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

If you’ve ever wanted a go-to sweet treat that’s both delightful and straightforward, this Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe is the one to try. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth with buttery goodness and just a hint of almond to keep things interesting. These cookies aren’t just for holidays; they make any day feel special, and the best part is how easy they are to whip up and personalize. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun kitchen project, this recipe will soon become your favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing these sugar cookies. Each component plays its part, whether it’s adding richness, texture, or that perfect balance of flavor.

• All-purpose flour (2 3/4 cups): This gives the dough its structure, ensuring the cookies hold together without being too dense.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for a tender crumb.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle lift to keep the cookies light and fluffy.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances richness.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): The star ingredient for that melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the dough perfectly while contributing to the cookie’s tender bite.
• Large egg (1): Binds ingredients together and adds moisture for chewiness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
• Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Optional but highly recommended for a subtle, nutty twist that elevates the classic sugar cookie.
• Milk (2 tablespoons, or 3 for softer cookies): Adjusts the dough consistency and tenderness.

How to Make Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This simple step prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly for that perfect golden edge.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Taking the time to do this ensures the leavening agents are evenly spread, so every cookie bakes up with the same fabulous texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This is where the magic starts, as incorporating air gives your cookies a delicate crumb and irresistible softness.

Step 4: Blend in the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract if you’re using it, and milk until everything is well combined. These ingredients add moisture and layers of flavor that will make your cookies taste incredible.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet bowl on low speed, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If your dough feels too soft to handle, pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes—this step is a secret to easier shaping and neater cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch dough balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Press down gently for a flatter cookie, which helps them bake evenly and achieve a beautiful bite.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes until the edges start to turn golden. Don’t worry if the centers look a little soft; they set as the cookies cool, leaving you with that perfect chewy center everyone loves.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to finish cooling. This prevents breakage and helps maintain the ideal texture.

How to Serve Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

A classic sugar cookie is already wonderful on its own, but a sprinkle of colored sugar crystals or a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a festive sparkle. For a beautiful twist, try brushing the tops with an egg wash before baking to achieve a subtle sheen.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea for a comforting treat. They also go amazingly well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re serving them as a dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, decorate the cookies with royal icing or edible markers. You can create fun shapes and patterns to personalize your batch or match a theme. Laying them out on a platter with fruits and nuts makes for an irresistible dessert spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for about a week, making them perfect for preparing ahead to satisfy sweet cravings anytime.

Freezing

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe dough freezes beautifully. Shape the dough balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This way, fresh cookies are always within reach.

Reheating

To revive cookies that have lost a bit of their freshness, warm them in a low oven for a few minutes or pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This restores their soft texture and rich buttery flavor as if they were freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from tasting overly salty.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

The almond extract adds a lovely depth, but it’s completely okay to skip it. Your cookies will still be delicious and classic with just vanilla.

How do I make crispier sugar cookies?

Bake the cookies a minute or two longer until golden brown on the edges. Just be careful not to overbake, or they might get too hard.

Can I decorate these cookies with icing?

Absolutely! These sugar cookies provide a smooth surface that’s perfect for royal icing or buttercream decorations, making them ideal for festive occasions.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps if it feels too soft to handle, making shaping easier and preventing spreading during baking, but it’s not absolutely required.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a sugar cookie with a soft, buttery bite and a hint of almond that makes every moment sweeter. This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe is a joy to bake, share, and savor—whether you’re making memories with family, decorating for a party, or just treating yourself. Give it a go, and soon you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic in my kitchen.