Sugar cookies are timeless. They are simple, sweet, and endlessly versatile. Whether rolled out and cut into shapes for the holidays or baked into soft, chewy rounds for an everyday treat, sugar cookies remain a favorite across generations. Their charm lies in the balance of buttery richness and subtle sweetness, providing the perfect canvas for decoration or enjoyed plain.

The beauty of this Easy Sugar Cookies recipe is its reliability. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dough that is easy to handle, bakes evenly, and results in cookies with crisp edges and soft centers. These cookies work for any occasion: Christmas, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just because.

Contents show

Ingredients

This recipe makes about 24 medium cookies.

Dry Ingredients

2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3 tbsp milk (whole or 2% preferred)

For Rolling (Optional)

¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Beat in the egg until well incorporated.
Mix in vanilla extract and milk until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined.
Do not overmix to avoid tough cookies.
The dough should be soft but not sticky. If too sticky, refrigerate for 20 minutes before rolling.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon portions of dough and roll into balls.
Roll dough balls in granulated sugar if desired for a sparkly finish.
Place on baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Bake

Bake cookies for 9–11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
The centers should look slightly underbaked; they will continue to set as they cool.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Conservation and Storage

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer (Dough): Freeze shaped dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.
Freezer (Baked Cookies): Store baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Tips for Perfecting Sugar Cookies

Softened Butter Matters: Butter should be slightly cool to the touch, not melted, for the right texture.
Do Not Overmix: Overworking the dough creates dense cookies instead of light, soft ones.
Chill if Needed: If the dough feels sticky, refrigerate before rolling to make it easier to handle.
Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for uniform baking.
Pull Early: Remove cookies when edges are set but centers look soft for chewy results.

Variations

Frosted Sugar Cookies: Add buttercream or royal icing for decorated holiday treats.
Citrus Twist: Add zest of 1 lemon or orange for a refreshing flavor.
Spiced Sugar Cookies: Mix in 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy touch.
Chocolate Dipped: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with festive toppings.
Colored Sugar: Roll in red, green, or gold sugar for themed cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with milk or hot cocoa for a classic experience.
Use as a base for ice cream sandwiches.
Serve decorated cookies at parties or gift them in tins.
Stack and tie with ribbon for edible holiday favors.

Conclusion

The Easy Sugar Cookies recipe is proof that simplicity never goes out of style. With buttery flavor, a tender bite, and endless decorating potential, these cookies adapt to every season and occasion. By following the clear steps and keeping the key tips in mind, you’ll achieve cookies that are soft, sweet, and perfectly balanced.

Whether you roll them in sugar, frost them, or enjoy them plain, these cookies remind us why classics endure—they’re comforting, versatile, and always welcome on the table.