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Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

4.5 from 99 reviews

Classic sugar cookies featuring a buttery, sweet dough that is rolled out, cut into shapes, and baked to a perfect, lightly golden finish. This simple, timeless recipe yields tender cookies that are crisp on the edges and soft inside—perfect for any occasion or holiday treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  2. Roll and Cut: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into your desired shapes, and place them onto an ungreased baking sheet, leaving space between them for slight spreading.
  3. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookie cutouts in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly.
  • Chill the dough before rolling to prevent spreading.
  • Decorate with icing or sprinkles once cooled for festive treats.
  • Ensure butter is softened but not melted for best texture.

Keywords: sugar cookies, butter cookies, holiday cookies, cookie recipe, classic sugar cookies