Do you have a sweet tooth? Are you craving a delicious treat that’s quick and easy to make? Look no further than these easy sugar cookies! Whether you enjoy them plain or with added candies, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Plus, they’re a hit with friends and family. One of my friends even tops them with chocolate mints, taking these cookies to a whole new level of deliciousness!
How to Make Sugar Cookies
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Making sugar cookies from scratch may seem intimidating, but fear not! This recipe is straightforward and requires just a few basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s dive into the process and discover how to make these delightful treats.
Sugar Cookie Ingredients
To create the best sugar cookies you’ve ever tasted, gather the following simple ingredients:
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup softened butter
– 1 ½ cups white sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Sugar Cookies From Scratch
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making these delectable sugar cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, continuing to beat until well combined.
5. Gradually blend the flour mixture into the butter mixture until a dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a brief period, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How Long Do Sugar Cookies Last?
If you manage to resist devouring all the cookies at once, you may be wondering how to store them for later enjoyment. Simply place the cooled cookies in an airtight container. At room temperature, they will stay fresh for a few days, while refrigeration can extend their lifespan to up to one week. If you’ve frosted your cookies, make sure to stack them with wax paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
Can You Freeze Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! These sugar cookies are freezer-friendly, so you can enjoy them whenever you want, even if you’re not ready to devour the entire batch. Here’s how to freeze both baked cookies and cookie dough:
To freeze baked cookies:
1. Allow the baked cookies to cool completely.
2. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch.
3. Cover the baking sheet and freeze the cookies for about three hours or overnight.
4. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a zip-top bag or a freezer-safe container.
5. For extra protection, wrap the container in at least one layer of foil.
6. Frozen baked cookies can be stored for up to two months.
To freeze cookie dough:
1. Roll the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Cover the baking sheet and freeze the dough balls for about three hours or overnight.
3. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag or a freezer-safe container.
4. Again, wrap the container in at least one layer of foil for added protection.
5. Frozen cookie dough can be stored for up to two months.
With these freezing options, you can have a stash of homemade sugar cookies ready to bake whenever a craving strikes or a special occasion arises. Simply thaw the dough or pre-baked cookies when you’re ready to enjoy them, and you’ll have fresh, homemade treats in no time.
So, there you have it! This easy sugar cookie recipe is a true winner. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll be baking a batch of delectable sugar cookies in no time. Whether you prefer them plain or with your favorite candies mixed in, these cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to add your personal touch to these cookies. From chocolate mints to colorful sprinkles, the possibilities are endless. Get creative and have fun with your sugar cookie creations!
Remember, you can also freeze both the baked cookies and the dough, making it convenient to enjoy these treats whenever you desire. Having a stash of homemade cookies in the freezer is perfect for unexpected guests or those moments when you need a quick and delicious dessert.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies fill your kitchen. With this easy sugar cookie recipe, you’ll have a delightful treat that’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone who takes a bite.
Homemade Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- ½ teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 cup of softened butter
- 1 ½ cups of white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside for now.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. This step is important for achieving that perfect texture in your sugar cookies.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture, continuing to mix until everything is well incorporated. The egg adds moisture and helps bind the dough together, while the vanilla extract adds a hint of aromatic flavor.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the flour is fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Now, it's time to shape the cookie dough. Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls and place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass to achieve the desired thickness.
- Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn a beautiful golden brown color. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
- Once the cookies are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This will allow them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the cookies will become slightly crisp on the outside while remaining soft and tender on the inside.
