Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for that perfect sweet treat to fill your kitchen with cozy vibes and endless smiles, you’ve got to try this Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds me of childhood afternoons frosting cookies with my siblings—a little messy but oh-so-worth it. These cookies are buttery, tender, and just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without being overpowering. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through every step so you end up with cookies that are just as dreamy as mine.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe plays its part to create that iconic flavor and texture we all love. From the richness of butter to the subtle depth of vanilla, these pantry staples come together beautifully. When shopping, I always pick fresh eggs and real vanilla extract—trust me, it makes a difference!

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure; make sure to sift it for lightness and accurate measurement.
• Baking powder: A gentle leavening agent helps the cookies rise just enough for tenderness.
• Fine sea salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors perfectly.
• Unsalted butter: Softened, never melted—this adds richness and that prized melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and creates a delicate crunch when you roll the dough balls before baking.
• Eggs: Bind the dough and provide structure; fresh eggs give the best result.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor; don’t skimp on real vanilla.

Make It Your Way

This Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe is like a blank canvas—you can absolutely have fun with it! Over the years, I’ve added little tweaks here and there, and I’d love to encourage you to do the same. Whether it’s a different extract or topping, don’t be shy about making these cookies your own.

• Variation: I sometimes swap vanilla extract for almond extract—it gives the cookies a subtle, nutty twist that my family adores.
• Dietary option: For a dairy-free version, replacing butter with vegan butter works well; just keep an eye on consistency since dough texture might slightly change.
• Seasonal twist: Around the holidays, I add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the dry ingredients to evoke warm festive flavors.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Get Your Oven and Workspace Ready

Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Preparing your oven ahead means by the time your dough is ready, the heat is just right. I like using parchment paper because it prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze—trust me, it saves you from a sticky situation!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Nicely

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is key to avoid lumps and ensures the baking powder spreads evenly, so your cookies rise beautifully without any bitter pockets.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar Until Fluffy

Using an electric mixer, beat your softened butter and sugar on high speed for 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t rush this—it’s the secret weapon for soft, tender cookies. You’ll notice the mixture turning pale and fluffy, which means you’re on the right track.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla, Then Incorporate Flour

Lower the mixer speed and beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of your bowl so everything combines evenly. Next, slowly add the dry flour mixture while the mixer runs on low. Once combined, give it another quick mix for about 30 seconds to ensure a smooth dough without overworking it.

Step 5: Shape and Sugar-Coat Your Cookies

Pour some extra granulated sugar into a small bowl. Scoop dough with a cookie scoop or tablespoon, then gently roll into 1-inch balls. I love this step because the dough is soft and delicate—don’t over-handle it or your cookies could turn tough. Roll each ball in the sugar bowl until coated, then place them 2 inches apart on your cookie sheets.

Step 6: Press and Bake

Take the bottom of a drinking glass and press each dough ball down until it’s about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. It creates that classic flat shape and helps cookies bake evenly. Bake the trays for 9 to 11 minutes—edges should be just turning golden, with centers nearly set. That’s when you know they’re perfectly soft and chewy.

Step 7: Cool and (Optional) Glaze

Let the cookies cool fully right on the baking sheet before moving them. If you want to dress them up, try my simple bourbon glaze—it’s a fun grown-up twist that adds a lovely silky shine. Just whisk heavy cream, vanilla, bourbon, then powdered sugar until smooth, dip the cookie tops, and let dry on parchment.

How to Serve Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I love keeping things simple with these cookies, usually dusting a little extra sugar or a light spritz of colored sugar crystals before baking. When I’m in a festive mood, royal icing or a drizzle of chocolate works wonders to make them look extra special.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, classic milk, or rich coffee. I’ve also served them alongside fresh fruit and soft cheeses for a simple dessert platter at get-togethers.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like stacking them into little towers tied with ribbon or arranging them in festive tins lined with parchment. Kids especially love decorating their own cookie trays with colorful sprinkles, icing pens, and edible glitter—so much fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They keep their softness for about a week, though they rarely last that long in my house!

Freezing

If I want to prep ahead, I freeze the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready, I bake them straight from frozen—just add a couple extra minutes. This method keeps my cookie cravings covered without last-minute mess.

Reheating

To freshen leftovers, I warm cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This little trick revives that fresh-baked softness and lets the butter flavor shine again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe holds a little piece of my heart with every batch I bake. There’s something so comforting about that buttery, delicate flavor and the simple joy of sharing these treats with loved ones. I really hope you enjoy baking (and eating!) these as much as I do—grab that butter, preheat your oven, and let’s get rolling those perfect sugar cookies!

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