Print

Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 11 reviews

These easy sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe ensures delicious homemade cookies with a tender texture and classic vanilla flavor.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

For Rolling

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with a Silpat baking mat or parchment paper and set aside to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder until fully combined. Set this mixture aside for incorporation into the dough later.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter on medium speed for about 1 minute. Add 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Remember to stop once to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure even mixing.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the large egg, large egg yolk, and pure vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed. Mix until just combined. Although the dough may appear crumbly at first, continue mixing lightly until it comes together into a soft dough.
  6. Form and Roll Dough Balls: Place the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a small bowl. Shape the dough into balls approximately 2 tablespoons each. Roll each dough ball thoroughly in the sugar to coat.
  7. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are a light golden brown and the tops begin to crack. Start checking at 10 minutes, as ovens vary. Avoid overbaking to maintain soft and chewy texture.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on it for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months to enjoy later.

Notes

  • Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
  • Scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl to ensure proper mixing.
  • Room temperature butter ensures better creaming with sugar.
  • Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • Cookies can be frozen either baked or in dough form; for baked cookies, thaw at room temperature before serving.