Name: Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 3–4 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

There's nothing quite like a batch of fresh, homemade sugar cookies coming out of the oven. The sweet, buttery aroma fills the kitchen, instantly bringing a smile to anyone’s face. These easy sugar cookies are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and delicately sweet, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

I remember the first time I tried making these cookies; I was looking for something quick and simple to satisfy a sweet craving. Little did I know that they would become my go-to cookie recipe, especially when I need something crowd-pleasing and easy to whip up. Let’s dive into what makes these sugar cookies a must-have in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Get ready to add this recipe to your list of favorites. These sugar cookies check all the boxes for an ideal treat.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you can have these cookies mixed, baked, and ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes. Perfect for when you need a quick dessert!

The flavor is absolutely classic – a lovely balance of buttery richness and gentle sweetness, ideal for those who like a cookie that's not too overpowering. You can keep them simple or add sprinkles, frosting, or a dusting of sugar on top for a festive touch.

Their versatility makes these cookies perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making holiday treats, party favors, or a quick after-school snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

And let’s not forget the texture. They have a light crispness on the edges with a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth. It's the kind of cookie that has everyone reaching for “just one more”!

Ingredients Notes

These sugar cookies are made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect cookie.

All-purpose flour: This provides the structure for the cookies. Be sure to measure your flour accurately to avoid cookies that are too dry or too dense. For the best results, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the cookies. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting, which helps it cream smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and airy dough.

Granulated sugar: The sugar sweetens the cookies and helps give them their classic texture. It also helps create a slightly crispy edge, which adds a nice contrast to the soft center.

Egg: Eggs provide moisture and help bind the ingredients together. For this recipe, a single large egg works perfectly, adding just the right amount of richness to the dough.

Vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla enhances the flavor of the cookies and adds warmth. You can even experiment with almond extract for a different, slightly nutty flavor profile.

You’ll also need a mixing bowl, a hand or stand mixer, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

How to Make This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Making these sugar cookies is a breeze, and they come together in just a few simple steps. Here’s how to create these delightful treats in no time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer. The creaming process incorporates air into the dough, which helps give the cookies their tender texture.

Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. This will give the dough a smooth, cohesive consistency. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Gradually add in the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until just combined. Over-mixing the dough can make the cookies tough, so as soon as you see the flour fully incorporated, stop mixing.

Once your dough is ready, scoop it into small balls (about a tablespoon each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. For a classic look, you can flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look slightly underbaked, but they’ll firm up as the cookies cool. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Options

Storing these sugar cookies is easy, and they stay fresh for days, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.

For short-term storage, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days. If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, leave the container loosely covered.

If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

You can also freeze the unbaked dough. Scoop and shape the dough balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can bake just a few cookies whenever the craving strikes – just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this sugar cookie recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few ideas for customizing your cookies to make them truly unique.

Try adding colored sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking for a festive touch. This is perfect for holidays or special occasions when you want a bit of extra color.

If you’re a fan of frosted sugar cookies, whip up a simple buttercream or royal icing to spread over the cooled cookies. You can even add food coloring to match any theme or season.

For a fun flavor twist, swap half of the vanilla extract with almond extract. The almond flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the cookies, giving them a sophisticated edge.

If you like citrus flavors, add the zest of a lemon or an orange to the dough. This adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.

And if you want to make the cookies a bit richer, try using brown sugar instead of white. This will give them a deeper, slightly caramel-like flavor and a chewier texture.

These easy sugar cookies are as delightful as they are simple to make. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself to a homemade snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, or add a touch of creativity with toppings and flavors – you can’t go wrong!