Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe for Perfect Sweet Treats

Why You’ll Love This Classic Sugar Cookies

This classic sugar cookies recipe is a go-to favorite that’s sure to brighten your day with its simple charm and delicious taste. It’s perfect for home bakers who want something quick and satisfying without needing fancy tools or hours in the kitchen. Plus, the buttery goodness and just-right sweetness make it a hit for family gatherings or a quiet treat with coffee.

When you try this recipe, you’ll notice how easy it is to whip up in just minutes, making it ideal for busy parents or students looking for a fun baking project. The cookies offer that wonderful balance of chewiness and crisp edges that everyone craves. What really makes them special is how they can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs, adding to their appeal for baking enthusiasts of all levels.

Beyond the taste, these cookies bring a sense of joy and comfort that turns ordinary moments into memorable ones. Imagine sharing a batch with friends and seeing their smiles this recipe captures the heart of home baking. It’s no wonder it has become a staple for anyone exploring classic desserts with a personal touch.

Key Features That Stand Out

• Easy preparation means you can mix and bake in under 25 minutes total.
• Nutritional balance from ingredients like flour and butter provides steady energy without overwhelming sugars.
• Versatile options allow swaps for vegan or gluten-free versions to fit various lifestyles.
• A delightful flavor profile that’s subtly sweet and buttery, perfect for any occasion.

To learn more about adapting recipes for dietary needs, check out my Lemon Oatmeal Cookies for another easy variation that adds citrus zest to your baking routine.

Essential Ingredients for Classic Sugar Cookies

Ah, let’s dive into what makes these classic sugar cookies so irresistible the ingredients! This recipe uses straightforward pantry staples that come together to create that perfect soft and chewy texture you’re after. I’ll list them out clearly so you can follow along without any fuss, ensuring you get the exact measurements for the best results.

Remember, using fresh ingredients is key to achieving that wonderful flavor and consistency. This section pulls directly from the recipe details to give you a comprehensive list that’s easy to shop for and prepare. Whether you’re baking for the first time or you’re a pro, having the right amounts will make all the difference.

Main Ingredients List

• 2 and a half cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
• 1 and a quarter cups (250 grams) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar, for rolling
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients form the foundation of your cookies, offering a blend that ensures tenderness and flavor. For special dietary tweaks, you can explore options like substituting butter with plant-based alternatives in other recipes on the site.

How to Prepare the Perfect Classic Sugar Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ready to bake these classic sugar cookies is as fun as eating them! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid any sticking. This step sets the stage for even baking and easy cleanup, making the process smoother for busy bakers.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined this dry mix is what gives your cookies their structure. Then, in a large bowl, beat the butter and 1 and a quarter cups (250 grams) of sugar with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes for that perfect creaminess.

Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until everything blends smoothly. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. For a sparkly finish, place the 1/4 cup (50 grams) of sugar in a shallow dish, form the dough into balls using a cookie scoop, roll them in the sugar, and arrange them on your baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until set and just browning around the edges.

Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet before moving them to a wire rack. This simple guide turns baking into a rewarding activity, great for family fun or a quick dessert. If you’re looking for more baking inspiration, try my Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake for a fruity twist on sweet treats.

Timing and Yield Details

This table helps you plan your baking session, showing just how quick and efficient this recipe is.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Classic Sugar Cookies

Making these classic sugar cookies work for your needs is simple and exciting, allowing you to tweak them just how you like. For instance, if you’re going vegan, swap the eggs with flax seeds mixed with water or use plant-based margarine instead of butter. These changes keep the cookies delicious while fitting different preferences.

You can also play with flavors by adding citrus zest or swapping sugar for natural sweeteners like maple syrup. This flexibility makes the recipe a canvas for your creativity, perfect for food enthusiasts exploring new ideas. Remember, small adjustments can lead to big flavor wins without losing that signature chewy texture.

• Use flax or chia seeds mixed with water as egg replacements for vegan options.
• Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine to adjust fat sources.
• Opt for gluten-free flour blends in place of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivity.
• Add almond extract or nuts for a fun twist on the original recipe.

Mastering Classic Sugar Cookies: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you have the basics down, you can take your classic sugar cookies to the next level with a few pro tips that make a real difference. Chilling the dough for 24 to 72 hours helps it hold shape and develop deeper flavors, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies that are worth the wait. Using a kitchen scale for precise measurements ensures every batch turns out consistent and perfect.

Experimenting with flavors is where the fun begins try adding almond or lemon extract for a fresh twist, or mix in chocolate chips for extra indulgence. For presentation, decorate with icing or sprinkles to make them pop at parties, and consider shaping with cookie cutters for special occasions. These variations keep things interesting and tailored to your mood.

Storage and Make-Ahead Ideas

• Prepare dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for a month.
• Roll dough balls in sugar for that crinkly top before baking.
• Use fresh baking powder to get those ideal cracks on the surface.

As one baking expert shared, “Chilling the dough not only prevents spreading but enhances the taste, turning a simple cookie into something truly special.”

How to Store Classic Sugar Cookies: Best Practices

Keeping your classic sugar cookies fresh is key to enjoying them longer, and it’s easier than you think. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to lock in that soft texture. If you want them to stay moist, add a slice of bread or an apple wedge inside the container it works like magic!

For longer storage, freeze the cookies in sealed bags for up to 3 months, then thaw at room temperature when you’re ready. Reheating in the oven for a few minutes can bring back that just-baked warmth. This method is perfect for meal prep, letting you have treats on hand for busy days or unexpected guests.

Many home bakers find that proper storage turns leftovers into convenient snacks. For more storage tips on similar desserts, visit the best rolled sugar cookies guide for additional ideas.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic Sugar Cookies

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 16 large cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

🍪 Enjoy irresistibly soft and chewy sugar cookies that melt in your mouth.
✨ Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a classic homemade treat everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 and a half cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature

1 and a quarter cups (250 grams) granulated sugar

1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar for rolling

1 large egg

1 egg yolk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1-Getting ready to bake these classic sugar cookies is as fun as eating them! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid any sticking. This step sets the stage for even baking and easy cleanup, making the process smoother for busy bakers.

2-In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined this dry mix is what gives your cookies their structure. Then, in a large bowl, beat the butter and 1 and a quarter cups (250 grams) of sugar with an electric mixer until it’s light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes for that perfect creaminess.

3-Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until everything blends smoothly. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. For a sparkly finish, place the 1/4 cup (50 grams) of sugar in a shallow dish, form the dough into balls using a cookie scoop, roll them in the sugar, and arrange them on your baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until set and just browning around the edges.

4-Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet before moving them to a wire rack. This simple guide turns baking into a rewarding activity, great for family fun or a quick dessert. If you’re looking for more baking inspiration, try my Blueberry Cream Cheese Crumb Cake for a fruity twist on sweet treats.

Notes

🧈 Use butter at cool room temperature (around 67°F or 19°C) to prevent cookies from spreading too much.
⏲️ Avoid overbaking; cookies should look slightly wet in the center when removed from the oven.
✨ Rolling dough balls in granulated sugar creates a crinkly top and sparkly appearance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Keywords: Soft Sugar Cookies, Chewy Sugar Cookies, Sweet Treats, Homemade Cookies