Best Sugar Cookie Recipe

Discover the Best Sugar Cookie Recipe for soft, chewy, and perfectly shaped cookies that are ideal for decorating! This easy, no-chill dough recipe combines classic vanilla and almond flavors, producing a buttery cookie that’s delicious for holidays, bake sales, or anytime treats. Learn tips for the perfect thickness, avoiding overbaking, and storing cookies to keep them fresh. With variations like lemon and spiced sugar cookies, this recipe is customizable and great for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Follow this ultimate sugar cookie recipe for delightful cookies that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated white sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. almond extract
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 3 cups (360 grams) all-purpose flour

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and fluffy, at least 3 minutes.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing slowly until the dough starts to come together.

• Note: If the dough seems crumbly, keep mixing for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it’s still too dry, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead by hand until it’s smooth.

1. Prepare Dough for Cutting: No need to chill the dough! Divide it into 2-3 batches. Roll each batch out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Cut and Bake: Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then transfer cookies to a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 6-8 minutes, or until edges are set but not browned. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet until firm enough to move to a cooling rack.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sugar cookie recipe is perfect for achieving soft, buttery cookies that hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for decorating. The hint of almond extract adds a subtle flavor twist that pairs perfectly with vanilla, while the no-chill dough makes them quick and easy to prepare.

Tips

• Thickness Matters: Keep the dough about 1/4 inch thick to prevent over-baking and ensure soft, chewy cookies.
• Avoid Overbaking: Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are just set—they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
• Mix Well: If the dough appears crumbly, give it extra mixing time or knead briefly by hand to bring it together.

Variations and Substitutions

• Lemon Sugar Cookies: Swap the almond extract for lemon extract or add lemon zest for a fresh flavor twist.
• Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
• Spiced Sugar Cookies: Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth, perfect for holiday baking.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling out and baking.

How do I store these cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze decorated or plain cookies for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
Royal icing, buttercream frosting, or a simple powdered sugar glaze work well. Let cookies cool completely before decorating.

Serving and Suggestions

These sugar cookies are a classic for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or as gifts. Serve with coffee, tea, or milk, and add fun sprinkles or edible glitter to make them extra festive. Perfect for any occasion where a simple, delicious sugar cookie is in order!