When it comes to classic cookies that are perfect for every occasion, this sugar cookie recipe takes the crown. With its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness, these cookies are as delightful to eat as they are to bake. This recipe is crafted to hold its shape effortlessly, making it ideal for holiday cookie cutouts or any creative shapes you desire—no chilling required!

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. The dough mixes up quickly, and you won’t have to worry about refrigeration slowing down your process. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, creating a DIY decorating activity, or just craving a classic treat, these sugar cookies are sure to deliver perfection every time.

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the details of creating sugar cookies that are soft yet stable, making each cookie a blank canvas for fun decorating or a delicious snack all on its own.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Sugar Cookie

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture to the cookies, creating a smooth, creamy texture.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough without overpowering, keeping each bite balanced.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies, allowing them to hold shape while baking.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps achieve a tender, soft crumb.
Baking powder – Gives a slight rise, ensuring a light and airy texture.
Vanilla extract – Adds a warm, comforting flavor that elevates the cookie’s sweetness.
Almond extract – Enhances the flavor profile with a subtle nuttiness that pairs well with vanilla.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavor.

Quick and Easy Steps to Sugar Cookie Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg, mixing thoroughly until combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing in portions.
If the dough appears crumbly, continue mixing for an extra minute to ensure it binds well. If it’s still stiff, turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead lightly by hand.
Divide the dough into 2-3 portions. Roll each portion on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes, and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
Bake for 6-8 minutes until the edges are just set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Cookies

Watch the thickness: Rolling the dough too thin can lead to crispy edges; aim for 1/4 inch for the perfect balance of soft and structured.
Avoid overmixing: Mixing too much can make the dough tough; mix just until everything is combined.
For even baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through to ensure each cookie bakes perfectly.
Cool on the sheet: Let the cookies set on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack to avoid breaking while they’re still warm.

Creative Variations to Try

For added flavor, consider swapping almond extract with lemon or peppermint extract for a seasonal twist. Adding a touch of food coloring to the dough makes the cookies even more fun for themed occasions. These cookies also make the perfect base for royal icing or a dusting of colored sugar for a beautiful, festive finish.

How to Store Your Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making sure they’re fully cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup. If you need to make them ahead of time, they can also be frozen for up to three months. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a container or zip-top bag to avoid sticking, and thaw at room temperature before serving or decorating.

Whether it’s for a holiday or a simple treat, these sugar cookies are easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for sharing!

Sugar Cookie Recipe

Soft, perfectly shaped cut-out sugar cookies that hold their edges without the need to chill the dough.

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Gericht: Dessert

Land: American

Keyword: Sugar Cookie Recipe

Vorbereitung: 30

Zubereitung: 8

Gesamtzeit: 38

Portionen: cookies

Zutaten

1 cup unsalted butter 226 grams
1 cup granulated sugar 200 grams
3 cups all-purpose flour 360 grams
1 egg
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Anleitungen

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes.
Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg, beating thoroughly until combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing in portions.
Note: If the dough appears crumbly, continue mixing for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it still seems too stiff or dry, turn the dough out onto a floured countertop and knead briefly by hand, lightly wetting hands if necessary.
Divide the dough into 2-3 manageable portions. Roll each portion on a floured surface to a thickness close to 1/4 inch for optimal thickness.
Cut out cookies using your desired shapes and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F for 6-8 minutes, until the edges are just set but not browned. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet until firm enough to transfer to a wire rack.