Why Make This Recipe
Homemade sugar cookies are a classic treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. These cookies are soft, buttery, and have a delightful sweetness that makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, they are easy to customize with different shapes and decorations, making them fun for kids and adults alike.
How to Make Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 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
Directions:
- 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.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the flour and salt. Mix until combined and there are no streaks of flour remaining.
- Form the dough into a flat, oval disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the cookie dough with a rolling pin to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. If you want to sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar, do it now!
- Depending on the size of your cookies, bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just golden brown. For mini cookies, bake for about 8 minutes; for medium cookies, about 10 minutes; and for larger cookies, about 12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy them plain or frost as desired!
How to Serve Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve them plain for a sweet treat, or decorate with icing and sprinkles for a festive touch. They make a great addition to any dessert table or can be packed in a tin for gifts.
How to Store Sugar Cookies
To keep sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just ensure they are completely cool before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Tips to Make Sugar Cookies
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chill the dough well to prevent spreading during baking.
- Use different cookie cutters to create a variety of shapes.
- Experiment with different extracts for unique flavors.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor. Additionally, try using lemon or orange zest for a citrus twist!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you do, reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be slightly different, and they might be denser.
Can I decorate these cookies?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can frost the cookies with icing or use colored sugar for a fun touch.
Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 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 Reduce if using salted butter.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add the flour and salt. Mix until combined and there are no streaks of flour remaining.
- Form the dough into a flat, oval disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
Baking
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the cookie dough with a rolling pin to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets. If you want to sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar, do it now!
- Depending on the size of your cookies, bake for 8 to 12 minutes or until the edges are just golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before transferring to a wire rack.