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Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

This easy sugar cookies recipe yields soft, chewy, and buttery cookies with a hint of vanilla. Perfectly sweetened and simple to make, these cookies are delightful for any occasion and great for decorating or enjoying plain.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, at room temperature)
  • 1¼ cups granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, and baking powder to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes for optimal texture.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until fully combined, being careful not to overmix which could toughen the cookies.
  6. Shape Cookies: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart for spreading. Optionally, roll dough balls in extra granulated sugar before placing on the sheet for extra crunch and sweetness on the outside.
  7. Bake: Bake one sheet at a time in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until cookies are puffed, spread, and just beginning to turn lightly golden around the edges.
  8. Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after removing from the oven, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely to retain their soft texture.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the dough after adding the flour to avoid tough cookies.
  • Rolling the dough in sugar before baking adds a nice crunch and sparkle to the cookies.
  • You can store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • For a slight variation, add lemon zest or almond extract for different flavor notes.