
Why Make This Recipe
Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting are a delightful treat for any occasion. They are sweet, soft, and have a delicious creamy frosting that takes them to the next level. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. They are easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
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 salt
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
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 smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let the cookies cool on wire racks.
- To make the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth. Add the milk and vanilla extract; mix until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the vanilla buttercream frosting.
How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Serve these cookies on a nice plate or platter. They are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a treat after dinner. You can also add some sprinkles on top of the frosting for a festive touch. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!
How to Store Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them without frosting. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Tips to Make Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- Make sure the butter is softened before you start. This helps to create a smooth dough.
- Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft and slightly golden.
- If you want to make the frosting colorful, you can add a few drops of food coloring.
Variation
You can add flavors to your frosting, like cocoa powder for chocolate frosting or lemon zest for a citrus twist. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts into the cookie dough for extra taste and texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may not have the same rich flavor.
2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking it. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling into balls.

Soft Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
Ingredients
For the cookies
- 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 salt
For the frosting
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
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 and vanilla extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass and sprinkle with sugar.
Baking
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
- Let the cookies cool on wire racks.
Frosting
- To make the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar and softened butter until smooth.
- Add the milk and vanilla extract; mix until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the vanilla buttercream frosting.