Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a timeless classic, beloved for their buttery texture, delicate sweetness, and endless decorating possibilities. Whether you’re baking for a festive celebration, a weekend treat, or a fun family activity, sugar cookies offer a versatile and dependable recipe that never goes out of style. Their simplicity is part of their charm—crisp edges, soft centers, and a flavor that’s comforting and nostalgic all in one bite. From holiday shapes to everyday rounds, sugar cookies are perfect for every occasion and ideal for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or just a dusting of sugar.

This sugar cookie recipe is designed to be easy, dependable, and adaptable for decorators and cookie lovers alike. The dough is soft, easy to roll, and holds its shape beautifully during baking. Whether you choose to keep them plain or personalize them with colorful designs, these cookies maintain their rich flavor and tender bite. With a short ingredient list and straightforward technique, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Once you’ve made them once, they’ll likely become your go-to for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The dough is easy to work with and doesn’t spread excessively, meaning your cookie shapes stay crisp and defined.

• The flavor is perfectly balanced—just sweet enough, with a buttery richness that pairs beautifully with any topping.

• These cookies have a delightful texture, offering a slightly crisp edge with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center.

• You can enjoy them plain or get creative with royal icing, glaze, sprinkles, or sanding sugar for a fun decorating session.

• The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy baking later.

• This recipe uses everyday ingredients, making it convenient and budget-friendly for any occasion.

• It’s a wonderful activity for families or baking with kids, who will love rolling, cutting, and decorating their own cookies.

• These cookies store well, making them a perfect gift or party favor that stays fresh for days.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Chill time: 1 hour

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

• Yield: 36 cookies (depending on size and shape)

• Serving Size: 1 cookie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 16g

• Protein: 1g

• Fat: 6g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

Sugar Cookie Dough

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Toppings (Optional)

• Royal icing

• Powdered sugar glaze

• Sprinkles or colored sugar

• Edible decorations of choice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt

• Set aside for later use

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes)

• Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until fully incorporated

3. Combine and Mix the Dough

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture

• Mix on low speed until the dough comes together and is soft but not sticky

• Divide the dough into two portions and flatten into disks

4. Chill the Dough

• Wrap each dough disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour

• This helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading during baking

5. Roll and Cut

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)

• Roll out one dough disk on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness

• Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes

• Transfer cookies to a parchment-lined baking sheet

6. Bake the Cookies

• Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are just starting to turn golden

• Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack

7. Decorate (Optional)

• Once completely cooled, decorate with icing, glaze, or toppings of your choice

• Let the decorations set before storing or serving

Ingredient Background

The foundation of a great sugar cookie lies in the balance of quality ingredients. All-purpose flour provides the structure, while baking powder gives the cookies a slight lift without making them overly cakey. Salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness. Unsalted butter offers a rich, creamy base that contributes to both flavor and texture. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and structure, while eggs provide moisture and binding. Vanilla extract adds a classic, warm aroma, and almond extract offers a subtle nutty note that enhances the overall flavor. The dough’s simplicity allows it to be easily adapted or embellished to suit any occasion.

Technique Tips

• Always use softened butter for easy creaming—cold butter won’t incorporate air properly, affecting the texture

• Creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly creates a light base and helps with cookie spread control

• Chill the dough fully before rolling and baking; this not only helps with cookie shape but also improves flavor

• Roll the dough evenly to avoid underbaked or overbaked spots

• Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even browning

• Don’t overbake—cookies should appear pale with just a hint of golden color at the edges

• Allow cookies to cool completely before decorating for best results

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Use seasonal cookie cutters (stars, hearts, leaves, etc.) to match the theme of your event

• Create sandwich cookies by pairing two sugar cookies with a filling of jam, chocolate, or buttercream

• Decorate with intricate royal icing designs for festive or themed cookie sets

• Dust plain cookies with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish

• Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and top with crushed nuts or sprinkles for a gourmet twist

• Package cookies in clear gift bags or boxes tied with ribbon for a delightful edible gift

Additional Tips for Success

• If dough becomes too soft while cutting shapes, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes

• Keep flouring your rolling pin and surface lightly to prevent sticking without drying out the dough

• When decorating with icing, use a piping bag or squeeze bottle for cleaner lines and more control

• Allow icing to dry completely before stacking or storing decorated cookies

• Store cookies in a single layer or with parchment between layers to avoid smudging decorations

• You can flavor the dough with citrus zest, spices, or flavored extracts for variety

• Freeze cut-out dough shapes and bake them fresh when needed for last-minute treats

Recipe Variations

• Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus twist

• Stir in mini chocolate chips or crushed candies for extra flavor and texture

• Replace some of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate version

• Add warm spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a comforting, aromatic variation

• Try a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast

• Use flavored sugar (like vanilla or lavender sugar) to roll the dough for a subtle flavor boost

• Create marbled cookies by mixing in a small amount of colored dough before shaping

Freezing and Storage

• Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week

• Keep decorated cookies in a single layer or separated by parchment paper to protect the decorations

• Freeze undecorated cookies in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months

• Freeze dough disks or cut-out shapes and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to bake time

• Defrost cookies at room temperature before decorating or serving

• Store icing separately and decorate after thawing for best texture

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat flour for a fiber-rich version, or substitute part of the flour with oat flour

• Reduce sugar slightly and increase vanilla or spice for flavor without added sweetness

• Use unsweetened applesauce in place of part of the butter to lower fat content

• Add flaxseed meal or chia seeds for a nutritional boost

• Opt for natural food coloring and toppings for a cleaner alternative to artificial decorations

• Use unrefined sugars like coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness

• Make smaller cookies for built-in portion control without compromising enjoyment

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Arrange cookies on a decorative platter for dessert tables or tea parties

• Serve alongside warm beverages like tea, coffee, or spiced milk for a cozy treat

• Package in clear bags with themed tags for party favors or gift baskets

• Add cookies to a cookie decorating station at events for interactive fun

• Include sugar cookies in dessert jars or sweet grazing boards for variety

• Make personalized cookies with names or designs for birthdays and celebrations

• Offer a selection of icing colors and sprinkles for DIY cookie kits at gatherings

Special Equipment

• Rolling pin for flattening dough evenly

• Cookie cutters in desired shapes for themed designs

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking

• Hand mixer or stand mixer for efficient creaming and mixing

• Wire racks for cooling cookies evenly and quickly

• Piping bags or squeeze bottles for precise decorating

• Airtight containers for storing cookies and preserving freshness

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do sugar cookies spread during baking?

• Too-warm dough or over-creamed butter can cause spreading

• Always chill dough and measure ingredients accurately

2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

• Yes, dough can be frozen as disks or cut-out shapes

• Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months

3. How do I make cookies with crisp edges and soft centers?

• Roll to even thickness and bake until edges just turn golden

• Avoid overbaking to maintain a tender center

4. What icing is best for decorating sugar cookies?

• Royal icing is best for detailed designs

• Glaze icing is great for simple coverage and quicker drying

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

• Use plant-based butter alternatives and check your icing ingredients

• Texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious

6. How long should I chill the dough?

• At least 1 hour is recommended

• Longer chilling improves flavor and workability

7. Can I make sugar cookies without cookie cutters?

• Yes, roll into balls and flatten with a glass or fork

• Use a knife or jar lid for simple round shapes

8. How should I store decorated cookies?

• Keep in a single layer or separate with parchment to protect designs

• Store in a cool, dry place to preserve texture

Conclusion

Sugar cookies are the kind of recipe that never goes out of style—reliable, adaptable, and always delicious. With their perfect texture and simple flavor, they provide the ideal base for decorating or enjoying just as they are. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy.

From holiday gatherings to everyday treats, sugar cookies bring a sense of comfort and creativity to your kitchen. Their versatility makes them a baking staple, and with a few variations and decorative touches, you can tailor them to suit any event or mood. Keep this recipe close—it’s one you’ll reach for again and again.

Print