Sugar Cookies
Soft, buttery, and sweet homemade sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion and easily customizable.
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.
Notes
Store sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Freeze for longer storage once completely cool. Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added texture. Use different extracts for varied flavors.