Sugar Cookie Recipe for Beginners: Soft, Delicious, and Simple to Bake

Freshly baked sugar cookies on a wooden kitchen countertop, golden-brown and decorated with white royal icing and colorful sprinkles. A rolling pin, cookie cutters, and a small bowl of flour are visible in the background.


When it comes to baking, few treats can rival the simplicity and universal appeal of sugar cookies. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday, a birthday, or just indulging in a weekend baking spree, this sugar cookie recipe is sure to delight. Designed with both novice and experienced bakers in mind, this guide will walk you through every step to create the perfect batch of sugar cookies. Let’s dive in and explore the secrets behind these classic treats.

Why Choose This Sugar Cookie Recipe?

There are countless sugar cookie recipes out there, but what sets this one apart is its balance of flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. With its buttery richness and subtle sweetness, this sugar cookie recipe is versatile enough to be enjoyed plain or with creative decorations. Plus, the dough is easy to work with, making it perfect for shaping into festive designs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful sugar cookies, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookies:

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Optional Decorations:

  • Royal icing
  • Colored sprinkles
  • Edible glitter

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour (optional but recommended for better shapes)
  • Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the soft and tender texture that makes this sugar cookie recipe so special.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.

Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional)

For best results, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. Chilling helps the cookies retain their shape during baking.

Step 7: Roll and Cut

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Decorate and Enjoy

Once the cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to get creative! Use royal icing, sprinkles, or any decorations of your choice to make them festive and fun.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 sugar cookie) provides:

  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Protein: 2g

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cookie Recipe

  1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
  2. Chill the Dough: While optional, chilling the dough helps enhance the flavor and ensures the cookies hold their shape during baking.
  3. Monitor the Baking Time: Sugar cookies bake quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. They’re best when the edges are just set.
  4. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist on this classic sugar cookie recipe.

Why Sugar Cookies Are a Timeless Favorite

Sugar cookies have stood the test of time because of their simplicity and versatility. From classic rounds to intricate holiday shapes, this sugar cookie recipe provides a blank canvas for your creativity. Whether you’re making cookies for a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet craving, the possibilities are endless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make the Dough in Advance?

Absolutely! This sugar cookie recipe’s dough can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

How Do I Store the Cookies?

Store baked sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If decorated with royal icing, allow the icing to set completely before stacking.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes, this sugar cookie recipe can easily be doubled or halved to fit your needs. Just ensure you adjust the mixing times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This sugar cookie recipe is more than just a treat—it’s a tradition waiting to happen. With its simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless decorating possibilities, it’s the perfect recipe for bakers of all levels. So, preheat that oven and let the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies fill your home. Happy baking!

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