Classic Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are simple to make and perfect for any occasion. With a tender crumb and sweet flavor, they're ideal for decorating or enjoying plain.
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Electric mixer
- Medium bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 0.5 tsp Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Unsalted butter softened
- 1 Large egg
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt, then gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Chilling and Baking
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 2 days) for easier rolling and to prevent spreading.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut shapes with cookie cutters, and carefully transfer to prepared baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between cookies.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden; baking time varies by cookie size and thickness, so watch carefully.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, then they are ready to enjoy or decorate.
Notes
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before you begin creaming it with the sugar. Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour, as this can lead to tough cookies. Chilling the dough is an essential step for easier handling and to maintain the cookie shape during baking. These cookies are perfect for decorating with frosting and sprinkles for any holiday or special occasion.