The Perfect Sugar Cookie Recipe: Sweet and Simple Treats

If you’re searching for the ultimate sugar cookie recipe that delivers soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet cookies every time, look no further. This classic sugar cookie recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a simple afternoon treat. Follow our step-by-step guide to bake the best sugar cookies you’ll ever taste!

Why This Sugar Cookie Recipe Stands Out

1. Easy to Follow: With straightforward ingredients and simple instructions, this recipe is ideal for bakers of all skill levels.

2. Customizable: Whether you prefer plain cookies, frosted treats, or decorated designs, this recipe is versatile enough to suit your preferences.

3. Perfect Texture: The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures cookies that are soft in the center with just the right amount of crispiness around the edges.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cookie dough.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides the leavening to make your cookies rise.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder for a perfect cookie texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of your cookies.
1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature: Adds richness and a tender texture.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their crispness.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds classic cookie flavor.
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional): For an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Sugar Cookies: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and almond extract if using. Mix until well combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Shape the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoonfuls of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a classic look, gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft. Overbaking can lead to hard cookies, so keep an eye on them!
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorating Your Sugar Cookies

Feel free to get creative with your sugar cookies! You can use royal icing, sprinkles, or colored sugars to add a festive touch. Whether you’re decorating for a special occasion or just for fun, these cookies are a great canvas for your imagination.

Tips for the Perfect Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined.
Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chilling it for 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and shape.

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Conclusion

This sugar cookie recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a classic, delicious treat. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tenderness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy your homemade sugar cookies fresh out of the oven or decorated to perfection!

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Happy baking!