Description
These classic **sugar cookies** bake up with crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. Roll them in sugar for a sparkly finish—perfect for an easy weeknight dessert r a holiday cookie tray.
Ingredients
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
– 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (plus 1/3 cup for rolling, optional)
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Optional: 1/8 teaspoon almond extract (for a bakery-style flavor)
– Optional: sparkling sanding sugar or sprinkles for rolling
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to **350°F**. Line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in egg and vanilla (and almond extract, if using) until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to wet ingredients and stir just until combined.
5. Chill dough **30 minutes** if sticky or if your kitchen is warm.
6. Scoop dough into **1 1/2-tablespoon** portions, roll into balls, then roll in sugar or sprinkles.
7. Bake **9–11 minutes**, until edges are set and lightly golden. Centers will look slightly soft.
8. Cool on pan 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Notes
– **Don’t overmix:** Stir flour in just until you don’t see dry streaks for tender sugar cookies.
– **For thicker cookies:** Chill 60 minutes and bake one sheet at a time.
– **Cut-out option:** Chill 1–2 hours, roll 1/4-inch thick, cut shapes, bake 8–10 minutes.
– **Make-ahead:** Freeze dough balls up to 3 months; bake from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
– **Tools:** Mixing bowl, hand mixer (or stand mixer), cookie scoop, sheet pan, parchment paper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American