The Best Sugar Cookies
Everyone loves a good cookie, especially sugar cookies. They are soft, sweet, and can be shaped into many designs. This simple and classic sugar cookie recipe will become a favorite in your home. It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday, or just a craving for something sweet, these cookies will fit right in.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to love this sugar cookie recipe. Firstly, it is very easy to prepare. The ingredients are simple and you probably already have them in your kitchen. This means it won’t take long to make a batch for your family or friends.
Another great reason to try this recipe is how versatile sugar cookies are. You can customize them in so many ways! Use different cookie cutters to make fun shapes. Decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar to match any theme or occasion.
Moreover, making sugar cookies is a fun activity for kids and adults alike. It’s a wonderful way to bond with family members or enjoy an afternoon with friends. Making cookies together can create lasting memories while tasting delicious treats at the end.
Finally, sugar cookies are so delightful with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They are perfect for enjoying during cozy moments or celebrations. Making your own cookies means you can share them with loved ones, spreading sweetness and joy.
How to Make The Best Sugar Cookies
Making sugar cookies is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to create your own delightful batch.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
The first step is to gather all your ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature. This helps it mix well with the sugar.
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar. Beat them together until they are just combined. This should take about 45 seconds. Make sure to mix slowly so the sugar does not fly everywhere.
Next, add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture. Beat this well for about 1 minute until everything is smooth and blended.
After mixing the wet ingredients, scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula. This ensures all the butter and sugar mix well. Now it is time to add the dry ingredients.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and the salt. Mix it until everything is combined. You should not see any streaks of flour when it is done.
Once the dough is ready, form it into a flat, oval disk. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least one hour. If you can, leave it overnight. This chilling time is important for the dough to firm up.
When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Also, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help the cookies not to stick to the surface.
Take the chilled dough out. On a floured surface, roll it out with a rolling pin. Try to keep the dough at a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Carefully lift the cut cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets. If you want your cookies to shine with color, sprinkle them with colored sugar now!
Bake the cookies in the oven. The baking time will depend on the size of your cookies. For mini cookies, bake for about 8 minutes. For medium-sized cookies, aim for 10 minutes, and for larger cookies, bake around 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them until the edges turn a light golden brown.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
After cooling, you can frost them if you want. Or simply enjoy them plain!
How to Serve The Best Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them plain or get creative with frosting! For a festive touch, consider glazing them with icing and adding sprinkles or decorative sugar. This adds a fun and colorful element, especially for holidays or celebrations.
Another great way to serve these cookies is alongside beverages. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or tea. You can also serve them at parties on a large platter. Arrange them with other treats to create a lovely dessert table.
If you are hosting a gathering, consider offering a cookie decorating station. Provide different toppings like colored sugars, sprinkles, or edible glitter. This turns cookie eating into an exciting activity for guests of all ages.
Finally, keep in mind that sugar cookies can also be packaged nicely. They make great gifts or party favors. Sharing your homemade cookies will surely bring smiles and sweet memories.
How to Store The Best Sugar Cookies
To keep your sugar cookies fresh, store them properly. Once cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their softness and flavor. You can layer the cookies with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. If stored correctly, sugar cookies can last for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them.
To freeze sugar cookies, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. They will taste fresh even after being in the freezer!
Tips to Make The Best Sugar Cookies
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps your dough mix better and gives cookies a uniform texture.
Don’t Skimp on Chilling: Chilling the dough is important. It prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a better shape.
Try Different Flavors: While vanilla and almond extract are classic, consider trying lemon or orange zest for a fresh twist.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. It’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure your cookies bake correctly.
Watch Them While Baking: Keep an eye on the cookies in the last few minutes of baking. This will help you get the perfect golden edges without burning.
Adjust Baking Time for Size: Remember that cookie size affects baking time. Mini cookies might need less time; larger ones will need more time.
Variation
You can easily customize this sugar cookie recipe! Here are a few ideas for variations:
Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful contrast.
Lemon Sugar Cookies: Enhance the flavor by adding the zest of one lemon to your batter. You can also replace almond extract with lemon extract.
Nutty Sugar Cookies: Introduce chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch.
Spritz Cookies: Use a cookie press to create intricate shapes. Follow the same baking instructions.
FAQs
1. How can I tell when my cookies are done baking?
You’ll know your cookies are done when the edges are just golden brown. The tops may still look a little soft, but they will set as they cool.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months.
3. What can I use instead of almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can simply omit it or replace it with more vanilla extract. You can also try using coconut or hazelnut extract for a different flavor twist.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful sugar cookies with friends and family!
Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all your ingredients and ensure the butter is at room temperature.
- In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar. Beat until just combined, approximately 45 seconds.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture. Beat for 1 minute until smooth.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula, then gradually add the flour and salt. Mix until combined.
- Form the dough into a flat oval disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Sprinkle with colored sugar if desired.
- Bake in the oven for approximately 8-12 minutes, depending on size, until edges are light golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve plain or glazed with icing and sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Pair with milk, coffee, or tea for a delightful treat.
- Consider a cookie decorating station for gatherings.
- Package nicely for gifts or party favors.