These sugar cookies are soft, fluffy, and delicious with or without frosting. They’re a favorite for holidays, parties, or anytime you crave a classic treat!
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:24 cookies 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cookies:
3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
For the Frosting (Optional):
1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk (to thin)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Food coloring and sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Make the Cookies:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Eggs and Flavorings:
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sour cream.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be soft.
Shape the Cookies:
Use a cookie scoop or roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Bake:
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look slightly puffy. Do not overbake; the cookies should remain pale.
Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting (Optional):
Prepare the Frosting:
Beat the butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk. Beat until smooth, adding more milk if needed for desired consistency.
Decorate:
Spread or pipe the frosting onto the cooled cookies. Add food coloring and sprinkles if desired.
Notes
For best results, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
These cookies freeze well (with or without frosting) for up to 2 months.