Name: Classic Sugar Cookies – Soft, Buttery, and Perfect Every Time
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 1½ cups granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon milk; 9 ounces (2 sticks plus 2 tablespoons) unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting); 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract (for frosting); 3¾ cups powdered sugar; 1½ tablespoons whole milk; 1 cup sprinkles (optional)

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Classic Sugar Cookies baking in the oven. Their buttery flavor, soft texture, and sweet vanilla notes make them a timeless treat for any occasion—whether it’s the holidays, a bake sale, or a cozy weekend afternoon. This easy sugar cookie recipe combines simplicity with perfection, creating cookies that hold their shape beautifully and taste just as delightful plain or frosted.

Why You’ll Love These Classic Sugar Cookies

These Classic Sugar Cookies are a dream to make—quick, versatile, and family-friendly. The dough is easy to handle, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Each cookie bakes to golden-edged perfection with a tender center that melts in your mouth. Whether you choose to decorate them with vanilla buttercream or leave them plain, they always deliver that nostalgic, bakery-style sweetness.

Ingredients for Classic Sugar Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, buttery foundation and contributes to a soft texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that signature crisp edge.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients and ensures moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dough with a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
• Baking Powder: Adds lightness and helps the cookies rise slightly.
• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure while keeping the texture soft and tender.
• Milk: Adds just enough moisture for pliable dough consistency.

Vanilla Buttercream

• Unsalted Butter: Creates a creamy, rich frosting base.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds a sweet, fragrant aroma.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the buttercream for smooth spreading.
• Whole Milk: Loosens the texture for easy frosting application.
• Sprinkles (Optional): Add a festive, colorful finish.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

• Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free blend for an allergy-friendly option.
• Almond Extract: Add a dash for a nutty undertone that enhances the classic flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Swap half of the granulated sugar for a slightly deeper, caramelized sweetness.
• Plant-Based Butter: Use for a vegan variation that still offers delicious flavor and texture.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). This step creates the cookie’s signature tenderness.
Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add to the wet mixture on low speed until fully incorporated.
Scoop and Shape: Use a 1½-tablespoon scoop to form dough balls. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the sheet for 3–5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the Frosting: Beat butter until fluffy, then add vanilla. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then milk, until smooth and creamy.
Assemble: Pair cookies of similar size. Spread or pipe about 2 tablespoons of frosting on one and sandwich with another cookie.
Decorate: Roll the edges in sprinkles if desired for a festive touch.

Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Sugar Cookies

• Chill the Dough: If it feels too soft, refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to make shaping easier.
• Avoid Overbaking: Remove cookies when the edges are just turning golden to keep the centers soft.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures a smooth, even dough.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.

Flavor Twists and Serving Ideas

• Holiday Edition: Add a hint of peppermint extract or top with crushed candy canes for a winter twist.
• Citrus Sugar Cookies: Mix in lemon or orange zest to brighten the flavor.
• Spiced Version: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy, autumnal feel.
• Pairing Ideas: Serve with coffee, hot cocoa, or a glass of milk for the ultimate comfort pairing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare the dough up to two days in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. The baked cookies freeze beautifully—just layer them between parchment sheets in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and frost fresh for that bakery-style finish.

The Heart of Classic Sugar Cookies

What makes Classic Sugar Cookies truly timeless is their versatility and simplicity. This beloved recipe from Magnolia embodies everything we love about home baking—comfort, warmth, and the joy of creating something beautiful from simple ingredients. Perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday treats, these cookies never go out of style.

Bringing It All Together: Why Classic Sugar Cookies Never Go Out of Style

When it comes to timeless desserts, Classic Sugar Cookies remain the heart of home baking. Their buttery aroma, soft crumb, and delicate sweetness make them a staple in every baker’s collection. These cookies strike the perfect balance between simplicity and indulgence—ideal for decorating, gifting, or simply enjoying fresh out of the oven. Each batch captures that nostalgic comfort of homemade goodness, proving that the best recipes are often the simplest ones.

Whether you’re baking them for a festive gathering or a quiet weekend treat, these Classic Sugar Cookies promise joy in every bite. Their versatility allows you to adapt flavors, shapes, and frostings for any occasion, keeping them as relevant today as they were generations ago.

Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Sugar Cookies

1. How do I keep my Classic Sugar Cookies soft and chewy?
To maintain that perfect soft texture, avoid overbaking. Remove cookies from the oven when the edges are just barely golden. Storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread helps retain moisture and keeps them chewy for days.

2. Can I make Classic Sugar Cookie dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be prepared up to two days in advance and kept in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze it in a tightly sealed container for up to three months. When ready to bake, let the dough soften slightly at room temperature before scooping.

3. What’s the best way to decorate Classic Sugar Cookies?
These cookies are perfect canvases for creativity. Use vanilla buttercream, royal icing, or simple colored sugar sprinkles. For a polished finish, let cookies cool completely before decorating, ensuring the frosting doesn’t melt or slide.

4. Can I make Classic Sugar Cookies without eggs?
Yes! Substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, or use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water). Both alternatives maintain structure while keeping the cookies tender.

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