why make this recipe
Soft sugar cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves. Their chewy texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a casual day at home. These cookies are easy to make and can be customized with fun decorations, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as they bake!
how to make Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 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 white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Royal icing (for decorating)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until it is smooth. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients from the small bowl. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass that has been dipped in sugar to form thick cookies.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they are golden. Let them cool on wire racks.
- Once the cookies have cooled, decorate them with royal icing as desired.
how to serve Soft Sugar Cookies
Serve soft sugar cookies on a festive plate at parties or as a sweet treat for your family. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch, add colorful sprinkles or designs made from royal icing.
how to store Soft Sugar Cookies
To store your soft sugar cookies, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
tips to make Soft Sugar Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes if it’s too sticky to handle.
- For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft when you take them out.
variation
You can experiment with flavors by adding lemon or orange zest to the dough. Try using different extracts like peppermint or coconut for a unique taste!
FAQs
Can I freeze soft sugar cookies?
Yes! You can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of royal icing for decorating?
You can use regular icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or even melted chocolate for a different flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should look lightly golden at the edges and still soft in the center when they are done. Remember, they will firm up as they cool!
Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it's softened, not melted.
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
For Decorating
- Royal icing For decorating the cookies.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass that has been dipped in sugar.
Baking
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until they are golden.
- Let them cool on wire racks.
Decorating
- Once cooled, decorate cookies with royal icing as desired.