Perfect Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a versatile and beloved treat that have been enjoyed for generations. These cookies are known for their light, buttery flavor and crisp yet tender texture, making them a favorite for both children and adults. The history of sugar cookies dates back to the 1700s when German settlers in Pennsylvania created what is now known as the Pennsylvania Dutch Sugar Cookie. Over time, sugar cookies have evolved, becoming a staple in many households, especially during festive seasons such as Christmas, Halloween, and Easter.

One of the key features of sugar cookies is their simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients—flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract—you can create a delightful cookie that can be enjoyed on its own or decorated with icing and sprinkles for added fun. The dough is easy to work with, allowing bakers to roll it out and cut it into various shapes, making it perfect for themed celebrations and cookie decorating parties.

Baking sugar cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you involve family and friends in the process. From mixing the dough to cutting out shapes and decorating, each step offers a chance to create lasting memories. Moreover, sugar cookies make excellent gifts. Packaged in a beautiful tin or gift box, they can be shared with loved ones as a sweet gesture of appreciation.

In this guide, we will walk you through the entire process of making sugar cookies from scratch. We’ll cover everything from selecting the right ingredients to baking and decorating tips that will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re making cookies for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe will help you create the perfect sugar cookies that are sure to impress.

Print Recipe

Perfect Sugar Cookies

Cooking Method: Baking, Oven Cuisine: American Courses: Snack Recipe Keys: Kids Snacks Vegetarian Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 12 mins Rest Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 32 mins

Cooking Temp: 180  C Servings: 24 Calories: 120

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Sugar cookies are a timeless classic, beloved by people of all ages. Their delicate, buttery texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for any occasion, from festive holiday gatherings to simple afternoon snacks. This comprehensive guide will take you through every step of creating these delightful treats, ensuring your sugar cookies are always a hit.

Main Ingredients

Servings

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (300 grams)

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon baking powder (2 grams)

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon salt (1 gram)

• 1 cup unsalted butter (227 grams, softened)

• ³⁄₄ cup granulated sugar (150 grams)

• 1 large egg (50 grams)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 ml)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mixing the Dough

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until well combined.

4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

6. Rolling and Cutting

   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.

9. Baking

   Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Decorating (Optional)

    Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 7g11%

Saturated Fat 4g20%

Cholesterol 25mg9%

Sodium 35mg2%

Potassium 20mg1%

Total Carbohydrate 14g5%

Sugars 6g

Protein 1g2%

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Vitamin A 240 IU

Calcium 6 mg

Iron 0.5 mg

Vitamin E 0.2 IU

Vitamin K 0.1 mcg

Riboflavin 0.1 mg

Niacin 0.1 mg

Folate 6 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.1 mg

Phosphorus 12 mg

Magnesium 1 mg

Zinc 0.1 mg

Selenium 1 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to prevent cookies from spreading too much.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
• Adjust baking time based on the size and thickness of your cookies.
• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tips & Tricks

• Roll out dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Use a thin spatula to transfer cut-out cookies to the baking sheet.
• For even baking, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
• Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes for various occasions.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve sugar cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
• Arrange decorated sugar cookies on a platter for a festive holiday treat.
• Pack sugar cookies in decorative tins or boxes as gifts for friends and family.
• Enjoy sugar cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Pair sugar cookies with ice cream for a delicious dessert combo.

Dietary Restrictions

• Contains gluten and dairy.

Keywords: Sugar cookies, homemade, baking, dessert, easy recipe, holiday cookies, cookie decorating