Why You’ll Love Perfect Sugar Cookies Recipe
These cookies keep their shape and have crisp, even edges every time. They don’t require chilling the dough, come together with simple ingredients, and are delicious both plain and decorated.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup butter, softened
1 cup white granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cream together the softened butter and sugar with a mixer until smooth and fluffy.
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Add the vanilla extract and egg to the creamed mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough becomes crumbly.
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Use slightly wet hands to knead the dough by hand, then divide it into 2–3 balls.
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On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4‑inch thickness, using extra flour on top if needed to prevent sticking.
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Cut shapes with your favorite cookie cutters and transfer them to a parchment‑lined baking sheet using a thin metal spatula.
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Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Less time gives a softer, lighter cookie; more time gives a firmer, golden edge.
Servings and timing
Servings: 30 to 40 cookies
Prep time: about 30 minutes
Cook time: about 10 minutes
Total time: about 40 minutes
Variations
• Soft and Chewy: Bake at the lower end of the baking time for softer, chewier cookies.
• Golden Edges: Bake slightly longer for crispier edges and a deeper golden color.
• Flavored: Add lemon or orange zest, or a hint of almond extract for a twist.
• Decorated: After cooling, frost with icing or sprinkle before baking for a festive look.
Storage/Reheating
• Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days.
• Freezing: Cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes to freshen them up.
FAQs
What makes these sugar cookies “perfect”?
They hold their shape well without chilling and have smooth edges with a soft texture.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
No, this recipe is designed to work without chilling the dough.
Can I decorate these cookies with icing?
Yes — they’re great for decorating with icing or sprinkles.
How do I get perfect cookie shapes that don’t spread?
Rolling the dough evenly and using flour on the surface helps prevent spreading.
Why are my cookies too crumbly?
Your butter might not have been soft enough. You can also add a small amount of water to help bring the dough together.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes — you can refrigerate the dough before rolling and cutting, though it’s not required.
What’s the best way to store decorated cookies?
Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Ensure the icing is fully set before stacking.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes — freeze it in a single layer first, then stack in airtight bags. Thaw before cutting and baking.
Can I add colors or flavors?
Yes — food coloring and flavor extracts like almond or lemon can be added to the dough or icing.
How do I keep cookies soft?
Avoid overbaking. Remove them when the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft.
Conclusion
These perfect sugar cookies are simple, reliable, and versatile — ideal for holidays, celebrations, or everyday treats. With easy preparation, shapes that stay true, and delicious flavor, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.
