Description
This sugar cookie recipe creates soft, buttery cookies that hold their shape perfectly and are ideal for decorating. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday baking. These cookies stay soft for days and freeze well too.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour: provides structure
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: adds lift
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: balances sweetness
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened: adds richness and flavor
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar: sweetens and helps texture
- 1 large egg: binds the dough
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: enhances flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional): adds depth
- Royal Icing, Easy Glaze Icing, or Cookie Buttercream: for decorating
- Assorted sprinkles: for topping and texture
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar on high speed for about 3 minutes until light and creamy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using). Beat until fully combined.
- Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. If sticky, add 1 more tablespoon of flour.
- Divide dough in half. Roll each half to 1/4 inch thickness on parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
- Stack rolled dough with parchment between layers and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.
- Cut chilled dough into shapes. Re-roll scraps and cut again.
- Place cookies 3 inches apart and bake for 11–12 minutes until edges are lightly browned.
- Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate cooled cookies with icing and sprinkles. Let icing set before serving or storing.
Notes
- Roll the dough before chilling to make it easier to handle and reduce spreading.
- Use gel food coloring for icing to maintain consistency.
- Freeze dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- Try different extracts like maple, lemon, or coconut for unique flavor twists.
- Do not overbake to maintain a soft texture.
- Prep Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (decorated)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Sugar Cookie Recipe, soft sugar cookies, decorated cookies, cut-out sugar cookies, holiday cookies