The Best Sugar Cookies
There’s something special about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. It brings back memories of my childhood when we would spend afternoons in the kitchen, laughter mingling with the sweet scent of vanilla. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday party, or just a simple day at home, baking sugar cookies has a way of warming the heart and filling the spirit with nostalgia. These delightful treats are perfect for decorating with icing, sharing with friends, or simply enjoying with a glass of milk. Using simple, everyday ingredients, these sugar cookies are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of togetherness and love. Let me guide you through creating a batch of these sweet delights that will bring joy to your home. You’ll soon see why these sugar cookies have become a cherished favorite in our household.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
Baking sugar cookies is a delightful experience, especially when you have the right tools at your fingertips. Efficient equipment can make the process smoother, ensuring your cookies come out perfectly every time. Here’s a brief overview of must-have kitchen essentials:
- Stand Mixer with a paddle attachment: This is key for achieving a creamy, fluffy mixture without much elbow grease.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are critical for baking success.
- Parchment Paper: It prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- Rolling Pin: Perfect for getting your dough to the desired thickness.
- Cookie Cutters: These will help you create fun and festive shapes for decorating.
Each of these tools plays a crucial role in not only achieving the right texture but also in making the whole baking process enjoyable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Imagine walking into a room filled with the warm, inviting scent of freshly baked sugar cookies. These treats are a delightful balance of sweet and buttery, with a hint of vanilla and almond that tantalizes the taste buds. The texture is soft yet slightly crisp around the edges, making every bite a truly enjoyable experience. Here’s why these sugar cookies will steal your heart:
- Versatile: Whether you want to enjoy them plain or get creative with toppings, these cookies adapt beautifully. You can frost them, sprinkle them with colored sugar, or serve them with a simple glaze.
- Nostalgic Comfort: Baking sugar cookies isn’t just about food; it’s about creating lasting memories with family and friends. Each batch sparks joy and a sense of togetherness.
- Easy to Make: Even if you’re a beginner, these cookies come together quite effortlessly. You’ll feel accomplished after just a few simple steps.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From holiday parties to weekday treats, these cookies fit right in.
With these delightful sugar cookies, you’re not just baking cookies; you’re crafting moments that will linger long after the last bite.
The Best Sugar Cookies Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s exactly what you’ll need to make the best sugar cookies:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
These ingredients combine beautifully to create that classic sugar cookie flavor we all adore. Just remember to bring your butter and egg to room temperature for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating the perfect sugar cookies is a delightful journey. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready in no time.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar. Beat until just combined, about 45 seconds.
- Add in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat well for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until combined and no streaks of flour remain.
- Form the dough into a flat, oval disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. If you wish to sprinkle colored sugar on top, do so now!
- Depending on the size of your cutouts, bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden brown. For mini cookies, aim for about 8 minutes; for medium-sized cookies, around 10; and for larger cookies, approximately 12 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool thoroughly before frosting, or enjoy them plain!
Fun Variations You Can Try
Every baker longs for a dash of creativity to spice up their cookie game! Here are some fun variations you can try to make these sugar cookies truly your own:
- Citrus Zest: Adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest gives a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy kick.
- Dip in Chocolate: Dip half of the cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed nuts for added richness.
- Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch.
- Glazing: Use a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk to create a shiny topping.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your favorite!
How I Love to Serve It
Cookies are best enjoyed with a warm hug—or at least, that’s how I feel! When serving sugar cookies, presentation is key. I love to arrange them on a beautiful platter, perhaps dusted with a bit of extra powdered sugar for flair. Pair the cookies with fresh fruit or a bowl of homemade whipped cream for a touch of elegance. Here are two of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Cookie Sandwiches: Sandwich a layer of frosting between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
- With Milk or Coffee: Nothing pairs better than a warm cookie with a cool glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for dipping.
Whether sharing them around the table or leaving them out for a quick grab-and-go snack, sugar cookies never fail to enchant everyone.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Every baker has their own little secrets to help ensure a perfect batch of cookies. Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Always start with room-temperature butter and eggs to ensure they blend smoothly.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough! This step helps prevent spreading and allows the flavors to develop.
- Rolling Out: If the dough becomes sticky while rolling out, add a little more flour to your work surface.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary significantly.
- Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They also freeze beautifully for a later treat.
Baking is as much about the journey as it is the destination. Each batch teaches you something new!
Important Cooking Reminders
Here are some essential reminders to keep in mind while baking your sugar cookies:
- Safety First: Always be cautious when using the oven and hot pans to avoid burns.
- Reheating Tips: If you have leftover cookies, briefly warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh them.
- Storage Method: Store cookies in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature.
- Don’t Overbake: For soft cookies, they should appear slightly underbaked when you take them out, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
By keeping these reminders in mind, you’re sure to have a successful baking experience!
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
These sugar cookies can be a delightful treat while still fitting into your dietary needs. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per cookie:
- Calories: 80-100
- Carbohydrates: 12-14g
- Fat: 4-5g
- Protein: 1g
Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the size and any added toppings!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: About 24 cookies
Common Questions You Might Have
Can I decorate these sugar cookies?
Absolutely! Sugar cookies are perfect for decorating. Once cooled, you can use frosting, royal icing, or even colored sugars to make them festive for any occasion.
How should I store the cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen. To freeze, place them in a ziplock bag with as much air removed as possible.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s one that’s optimized for baking to maintain the cookies’ texture.
Conclusion
As you embark on your baking journey to create these delightful sugar cookies, remember that every bite tells a story. The warmth that fills your home, the laughter shared with loved ones, and the satisfaction of creating something special make the effort worthwhile. The Best Sugar Cookies are not just a treat; they embody the cozy moments that draw us closer together. As you pull that first batch from the oven, take a moment to enjoy the aroma and the crisp edges, inviting everyone to share in the experience. Whether you savor them alone with a glass of milk or share them at a gathering, these sugar cookies are bound to create lasting memories. So roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and let the sweet magic unfold. Whether they are expertly decorated or enjoyed plain, the joy they bring will be truly unforgettable.
Print
The Best Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful sugar cookies with a balance of sweet and buttery flavor, perfect for any occasion and easy to decorate.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar. Beat until just combined, about 45 seconds.
- Add in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract. Beat well for about 1 minute until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until combined and no streaks of flour remain.
- Form the dough into a flat, oval disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the cookie dough with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. If you wish to sprinkle colored sugar on top, do so now!
- Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden brown. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
Cookies can be decorated with frosting or colored sugars. Store in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: sugar cookies, baking, dessert, holiday treats