There’s something magical about sugar cookies. They’re the kind of treat that works for any season, any celebration, or just a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. You can dress them up with colorful icing, sprinkles, or sanding sugar for holidays and birthdays, or keep them plain and let their buttery, vanilla-scented charm shine all on its own.
The best part? They’re simple enough for beginners yet satisfying for even the most experienced bakers. This recipe makes cookies that are soft and chewy in the center with just the slightest golden edge perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
Ingredients
(Makes about 24 cookies)
- 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies bake evenly and release easily.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures your cookies rise evenly and have the perfect tender bite.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step gives your cookies that soft, dreamy texture.
Add the Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Your kitchen will already smell incredible.
Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Add the milk and mix briefly until the dough comes together.
Roll and Cut
Lightly flour your countertop and rolling pin. Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick — thick enough to stay soft after baking but thin enough to hold its shape. Cut out your desired shapes with cookie cutters, dipping them in flour between cuts to prevent sticking.
Bake to Perfection
Place cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared sheets. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. They’ll look slightly underbaked in the center — that’s the secret to keeping them soft.
Cool and Decorate
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. If decorating, wait until they’re fully cooled to add icing, glaze, or sprinkles.
Tips for Rolling, Cutting, and Decorating
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft, pop it in the fridge for 20–30 minutes before rolling.
- Even Thickness: Use rolling pin guides or two wooden dowels to keep your dough evenly thick for consistent baking.
- Creative Decorating: Try royal icing for intricate designs, a quick glaze for a shiny finish, or just a sprinkle of colored sugar before baking for effortless sparkle.
- Flavor Twists: Add a little lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon to the dough for a fun variation.
Storage Advice
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before decorating or serving.
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from pulling a tray of sugar cookies out of the oven — the warm, buttery scent filling the kitchen, the first bite into that soft, chewy center, and the smiles that follow when you share them. Whether you decorate each one like a tiny masterpiece or enjoy them plain with a cup of tea, this recipe is here for all your sweet, cozy moments.
So go ahead, bake a batch, share them with people you love, and make some sweet memories along the way.