Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

This Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe delivers soft, chewy, buttery cookies that are perfect for decorating—or enjoying just as they are. With simple pantry ingredients and no fancy steps, these cookies are ideal for baking with kids, holiday treat trays, or satisfying a sweet craving any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy texture with just the right sweetness
• Simple ingredients and easy steps
• No chilling required—ready to bake right away
• Great for cutting into shapes or rolling into balls
• Perfect base for frosting, sprinkles, or icing
• Versatile for holidays, birthdays, or everyday snacks
• Fun to make with kids or as a DIY decorating project
• Bakes evenly and holds its shape
• Delicious plain or dressed up
• Freezer-friendly dough and cookies

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Optional: almond extract, for extra flavor

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
6. For drop cookies: scoop and roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet. Flatten slightly.
7. For cut-out cookies: roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
8. Place cookies about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
9. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just barely golden. Do not overbake.
10. Cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 24 cookies (depending on size)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Add almond extract for a richer flavor
• Mix in sprinkles, chocolate chips, or citrus zest
• Roll dough in colored sugar before baking for festive cookies
• Top with royal icing, buttercream, or melted chocolate
• Use cookie cutters to make holiday or seasonal shapes
• Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist
• Make sandwich cookies with frosting or jam between two cookies

storage/reheating

To Store: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To Freeze Dough: Wrap dough tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
To Freeze Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, this recipe is designed to bake right away—but you can chill it if preferred for easier handling.

Can I make cut-out cookies with this recipe?

Yes! Just roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.

How do I keep sugar cookies soft?

Don’t overbake them—remove when edges are just set. Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months.

What kind of sugar is best?

Use white granulated sugar for classic sugar cookie texture and flavor.

Can I add food coloring?

Yes, you can color the dough or use colored sugar or icing for decoration.

What’s the best way to decorate them?

Royal icing, buttercream, melted chocolate, or simple colored sugar all work beautifully.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe.

How thick should I roll the dough for cut-outs?

About ¼ inch is ideal for soft but sturdy cookies.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Make sure your butter isn’t too warm, and consider chilling the dough for 10–15 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

These Easy Sugar Cookies are a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels. With a soft, buttery texture and endless decorating possibilities, they’re perfect for holidays, celebrations, or a fun baking day at home. Quick, reliable, and delicious every time—this is the only sugar cookie recipe you’ll ever need.

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