If you’re on the hunt for a classic treat that never goes out of style, these Timeless Sugar Cookies are just what you need. Perfectly sweet and delightfully crisp around the edges, they’re an ideal canvas for creative decorating or simply enjoying as they are.
Butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb. Make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Granulated sugar: Gives the cookies their sweetness and helps with browning.
Egg: Acts as a binder and adds moisture. Use a large egg for best results.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor. Pure vanilla extract is preferred for a richer taste.
All-purpose flour: The structure of the cookie. Measure accurately for consistent results.
Baking powder: Provides a slight lift, contributing to the light texture.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but you can also dress them up with a simple glaze or a sprinkle of colored sugar for a festive touch. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat, or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be at the perfect temperature when your cookies are ready to bake. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large bowl, start by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You want to mix until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes a couple of minutes. This step is crucial for the texture of your cookies, so don’t rush it.
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure they’re fully combined into the butter-sugar mixture for a smooth dough later on.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. You’ll want to do this slowly, mixing until a dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.
Now, roll tablespoon-sized amounts of dough into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for spreading.
Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers. This helps them bake evenly.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You’re looking for edges that are lightly golden, which signals they’re perfectly baked.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This little rest helps them set up nicely.