Why Are My Sugar Cookies Hard?

Overmixing or overbaking can cause them to harden. Mix gently and bake just until the edges are golden.

Do I Have to Chill the Dough?

It’s optional but helps with handling if the dough is soft.

Can I Make Them Gluten-Free?

Yes, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for the best results.

What’s the Best Way to Decorate Sugar Cookies?

Use royal icing or simple frosting with sprinkles for a festive touch.

Can I Add Chocolate Chips?

Absolutely! Fold in mini chips for a fun variation.

How Do I Make the Cookies Softer?

Add an extra tablespoon of milk to the dough and bake slightly less.

What Can I Use Instead of Butter?

Coconut oil or vegan butter makes a great substitute.

Soft and Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe - Perfect for Every Occasion

Name: Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups (350g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended for depth of flavor); 2 tablespoons milk (adjust to 3 tablespoons for softer cookies)

Description

This easy sugar cookie recipe delivers soft, chewy cookies with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for holidays, everyday snacking, or a fun decorating activity, these cookies are easy to make and customize. A touch of almond extract sets these cookies apart, adding a subtle but delightful depth of flavor.

Equipment:

Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Cookie scoop (optional, for uniform cookies)
Baking sheets
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 3/4 cups (350g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
2 tablespoons milk (adjust to 3 tablespoons for softer cookies)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and milk until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Shape Cookies: Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon for a more even bake.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. The centers will still look soft but will set as they cool.
Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Original Twist: The almond extract adds a subtle nutty undertone that enhances the buttery flavor. This is a simple but effective way to elevate a classic sugar cookie without altering its essence.
For Crispier Cookies: Bake for an additional 1-2 minutes to achieve a crisp texture.
Decorating Tip: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle cookies with colored sugar or brush with egg wash before baking.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 120