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sugar cookie recipe

This classic sugar cookie recipe yields soft, delicious cookies that are perfect for decorating or enjoying plain. With a simple list of ingredients and easy steps, you'll have a delightful batch of cookies in no time!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 electric mixer or whisk
  • 1 baking sheet
  • 1 parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • 1 measuring cups
  • 1 measuring spoons
  • 1 rolling pin (optional)
  • 1 cookie cutters (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar Extra granulated sugar for sprinkling (optional)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • If you prefer cut-out cookies, roll the dough out on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If you prefer drop cookies, scoop tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Sprinkle a small amount of granulated sugar on top of each cookie if desired.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent overbaking.
  • Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For festive occasions, feel free to decorate with icing or sprinkles after the cookies have cooled.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
The dough can also be prepped ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw before rolling or scooping.