This easy and reliable sugar cookie recipe guarantees a smooth, buttery treat that bakes up beautifully every time. Whether you’re using a cookie cutter to create fun shapes or simply craving a classic, simple cookie, this recipe is your go-to solution.
Plus, with only 7 basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making the dough is a breeze, and it’s firm enough for effortless cookie cutting.
These sugar cookies can be enjoyed fresh from the oven or decorated with royal icing, chocolate drizzles, or colorful frosting for added flair.
The dough works well with cookie cutters of all sizes, ensuring smooth cookies that maintain their shape—perfect for intricate decorations.
If you prefer simplicity, use a biscuit cutter to make perfectly round cookies.
Ingredients You Need for Sugar Cookies
- Butter: For the best results, use softened, unsalted butter. This will help create a smooth dough that firms up during refrigeration, making it easy to roll and cut. Unsalted butter also allows you to control the salt content.
- Sugar: I recommend using white granulated sugar for firmer, crisp cookies that are perfect for decorating. It helps cookies achieve their characteristic golden edges. For a chewier texture, swap half the granulated sugar for brown sugar.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste adds depth of flavor and a slight color to the dough. You can also experiment with other extracts like almond, citrus zest, or peppermint for a unique twist.
How to Make Sugar Cookies
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat softened butter and sugar together on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then mix in the vanilla.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing until everything is combined.
- Chill Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disk, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. If refrigerating for longer than 2 hours, let the dough sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat the oven to 375°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Re-roll any remaining dough until you’ve used it all.
- Bake: Place the cut-out cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden. Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate once cooled.
Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cookies
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sifting is key to achieving smooth dough and light, fluffy cookies. It helps eliminate lumps and ensures the flour is evenly distributed.
- Adjust Baking Time: Start checking your cookies at the 8-minute mark. They should be lightly golden around the edges when done.
- Cool Before Decorating: For the best results when decorating, allow the cookies to cool completely. Frosting or icing will adhere better to cookies that are at room temperature.
- Ensure Uniform Thickness: When rolling out dough, roll from the center outward, rotating the dough as you go to keep an even thickness. You can also use rolling pin guides to help.
Storage & Freezing Tips
- How to Store: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies for up to 2 months. Let them thaw to room temperature before decorating.
- Can I Freeze Cookie Dough? Yes! Wrap cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap, place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, refrigerate overnight and let the dough sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before rolling out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How Can I Make Cookies the Same Thickness? Use a rolling pin with guides or roll slowly and evenly from the center out. Rotate the dough and keep the rolling pin level as you work. This ensures that the dough is rolled to a consistent thickness for even baking.
This sugar cookie recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for all your baking needs, from casual treats to elaborate decorated cookies!
