These Classic Sugar Cookies are the quintessential treat for any occasion. With their buttery texture and just the right amount of sweetness, they’re perfect for decorating or enjoying as-is. Whether it's a festive holiday or a simple weekday craving, these cookies never disappoint.
Butter is the backbone of our cookie, providing a rich, creamy base. Make sure it's well softened for easy mixing. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps achieve that classic cookie texture. The egg binds everything together and adds moisture, while vanilla extract imparts a subtle, comforting aroma. Our dry mix of all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt brings structure and just a hint of rise to the cookies.
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can also be jazzed up with frosting or dipped in chocolate for a richer treat. They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combo.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly right from the start. Grab your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper — this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or a bit longer if you're doing it by hand.
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. You should see a nice, homogenous mixture at this point.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents and salt evenly throughout the flour.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until everything comes together — over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they’re about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
If you like a little extra sparkle, sprinkle the tops with sugar before popping them into the oven.
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
Share