Name: Classic Sugar Cookies: The Easy Recipe You'll Love to Bake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 210 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract ((see note)); 1 large egg; 2.5 cups all-purpose flour ((Plain flour)); 0.75 teaspoon baking powder; 0.75 teaspoon table salt; 3 cups powdered sugar (sifted (weigh before sifting)); 3-4 tablespoons milk ((whole milk recommended)); 2 tablespoons light corn syrup ((see note)); 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract; Gel food coloring (optional); Additional candies and sprinkles (for decorating, optional)

Introduction to Classic Sugar Cookies

Classic sugar cookies have graced our kitchens for generations, and it's easy to see why they remain a favorite. Their simple yet satisfying flavor, the delightful crunch that gives way to a soft center, and their versatility make them the perfect treat for any occasion—from holiday festivities to casual bake sales.

When it comes to baking, there's something truly special about the process of preparing classic sugar cookies. The ingredients are common pantry staples, including butter, sugar, and flour—a great opportunity to craft something delicious without needing to hunt down exotic items. You can even customize them by adding fun decorations or icing to make them your own (check out our frosting recipe below for ideas!).

Many bakers love passing down their own family recipes for sugar cookies. You might reminisce about time spent with loved ones decorating cookies, or perhaps you have stories of experimenting with flavors and shapes yourself. If you’re curious about the best tips for achieving that perfect dough or exploring different flavors, you're in the right place! So, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and discover the joy of making classic sugar cookies from scratch. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Classic Sugar Cookies

Essential ingredients for sugar cookies

When it comes to crafting classic sugar cookies, the right ingredients make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need for that soft, buttery goodness:

Unsalted butter: 1 cup (226 g), softened for easy mixing
Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200 g), the sweet backbone of your cookies
Egg: 1 large, binds everything together
Vanilla extract: 1 ½ teaspoons, for that irresistible aroma
All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups (315 g), the base of your dough
Baking powder: ¾ teaspoon, to give those cookies a little lift
Table salt: ¾ teaspoon enhances flavor

Optional ingredients for frosting and decoration

Now, if you want to elevate your sugar cookies further, consider these optional ingredients for frosting and decoration:

Powdered sugar: 3 cups (375 g), a must for that delightful icing
Milk: 3-4 tablespoons, to achieve your desired frosting consistency
Light corn syrup: 2 tablespoons, for a glossy finish
Gel food coloring: to personalize your cookies
Sprinkles and candies: for a fun touch, perfect for special occasions

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to baking delicious classic sugar cookies that everyone will love!

Preparing Classic Sugar Cookies

Making classic sugar cookies is a delightful experience that can evoke cherished childhood memories. So let’s dive into each step to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!

Gather Your Ingredients

The first step in preparing your classic sugar cookies is to gather all your ingredients. Ensure you have the following on hand:

1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon table salt

Having everything ready makes the process smoother. You can check out How to Measure Flour for tips on accurate measurements.

Cream Butter and Sugar

Next, combine the softened butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes creamy and light. This step is crucial, as it introduces air into the dough, providing a tender texture in your cookies.

Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Once your butter and sugar are creamed, it’s time to introduce the egg and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients into the mixture until fully combined. This not only adds flavor but also helps with the structure of your classic sugar cookies.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent and prevents any lumps in your dough.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part—combine the wet and dry mixtures! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough is smooth and well-integrated. Don’t worry if it seems a bit sticky; that just means you’re on the right track!

Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough is a crucial step in cookie-making. Transfer half of the dough onto a large sheet of plastic wrap, mold it into a flat disk, and wrap it tightly. Repeat with the other half. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or up to 5 days. This chilling time helps solidify the butter, resulting in cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Dust a clean surface with flour and roll out one disk of dough to your desired thickness—thinner for crispier cookies and thicker for softer cookies. Remember to keep adding flour as needed to prevent sticking.

Cut Shapes and Bake

Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes and place them on a prepared baking sheet, ensuring each cookie has enough space to expand. Bake them for about 8-10 minutes until the edges just start to turn golden. Allow them to cool completely before decorating.

These classic sugar cookies are blank canvases for your creativity, especially when it comes to icing and decorating. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share them with friends or get festive for any occasion!

Variations on Classic Sugar Cookies

Adding Flavors Like Almond or Lemon

Amp up your classic sugar cookies by adding delightful flavors! A splash of almond extract can bring a lovely nuttiness, while lemon extract adds a refreshing zing. Simply replace a portion of the vanilla extract with ¼ to ½ teaspoon of your desired flavor. This small change can elevate your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary—perfect for impressing your friends at your next gathering!

Colorful Frosted Sugar Cookies

Take your classic sugar cookies to the next level with vibrant icing and sprinkles! After baking, whip up a simple frosting and add gel food coloring for stunning hues. Use a piping bag for intricate designs, or let loose with a simple glaze. Feeling festive? Top your frosted cookies with colorful sprinkles or candies for a fun, edible decoration that makes every bite a delight.

For inspiration, check out the ranges available at Wilton for decorating supplies. Happy baking!

Baking Tips for Classic Sugar Cookies

Common mistakes to avoid

Baking classic sugar cookies can seem straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in overly spread-out cookies. Trust the process and chill for at least 2-3 hours!
Incorrect flour measurement: Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly. Always use the spoon-and-level method or a kitchen scale for accuracy.
Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should be just set with lightly golden edges.

Tips for the perfect shape and texture

To achieve those beautifully shaped classic sugar cookies:

Flour your surface generously: A floured surface helps keep the dough from sticking while rolling.
Thickness matters: Roll to about ⅛ inch for crispy cookies or ¼ inch for thicker, softer ones. Adjust baking time accordingly!
Use quality cookie cutters: A sharp cutter helps maintain clean shapes and edges, ensuring your cookies look as good as they taste.

For more detailed techniques, consider tips from baking experts on sites like The Kitchn. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Classic Sugar Cookies

Decorative Ideas for Different Occasions

Classic sugar cookies are a delightful canvas for creativity! For birthdays, try using vibrant icing and colorful sprinkles to match the party theme. During holidays, consider festive shapes like stars or snowmen, adorned with royal icing and edible glitter. For baby showers, soft pastels with cute animal designs can add a sweet touch. Don’t forget to personalize them with simple monogramming or seasonal messages—these little details make a world of difference!

Perfect Pairings with Beverages

When it comes to enjoying classic sugar cookies, pairing them with the right beverages elevates the experience. For a cozy afternoon, a warm cup of chai tea or hot cocoa complements the sweetness perfectly. If you're in the mood for something refreshing, try them with a cool lemonade or a classic milkshake. You can even serve them alongside a chilled glass of almond milk for a light, nutty contrast. These delightful combinations cater to every occasion, making your cookies even more irresistible!

Time Details for Classic Sugar Cookies

Preparation Time

Get ready to whip up a batch of classic sugar cookies! The prep time is approximately 15 minutes. This phase includes combining ingredients and rolling out your dough.

Chilling Time

Patience pays off! Allow your dough to chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 hours. This step is essential for achieving that perfect texture.

Baking Time

You’ll be baking these delightful cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want those edges to turn a light golden brown.

Total Time

In total, from preparation to enjoying your cookies, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 25 minutes—most of which is inactive time while the dough chills!

By following these time guidelines, you’ll have scrumptious classic sugar cookies ready to decorate and devour! For more baking tips and tricks, check out The Kitchn's Baking Basics. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Classic Sugar Cookies

Calories per cookie

Each delightful classic sugar cookie contains approximately 130 calories. Keep that in mind as you indulge! These cookies can satisfy your sweet tooth without completely derailing your daily caloric intake.

Key nutrients

Not only are these cookies tasty, but they also include some essential nutrients, such as:

Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 5g (with 3g saturated fat)
Cholesterol: 18mg
Sodium: 48mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g

For those tracking their nutrients, it's worth noting that despite the sugar content, sharing these treats can lead to joyful moments and fond memories!

Storage information

To keep your classic sugar cookies fresh and delicious, store any uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to ten days. Want to save some for later? You can freeze them for several months; just make sure to seal them properly to maintain their flavor!

For more great storage tips, check out this resource on cookie preservation. Enjoy your baking and happy snacking!

FAQs about Classic Sugar Cookies

How do I ensure my cookies don't spread too much?

To keep your classic sugar cookies from spreading too much during baking, chilling the dough is essential. After mixing, make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 2-3 hours before rolling it out. This solidifies the butter, helping the cookies maintain their shape. Additionally, if your dough seems too warm while you’re working with it, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?

Yes! Freezing sugar cookie dough is a fantastic option if you want to bake later. Simply wrap the chilled dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or a freezer bag. Frozen dough can last up to three months. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then roll out as usual.

What’s the best way to decorate sugar cookies?

For beautifully decorated classic sugar cookies, consider using an easy sugar cookie icing. Once your cookies are baked and cooled, use a piping bag or a simple Ziploc bag with a snipped corner to squeeze icing onto the cookies. Experiment with gel food coloring for eye-catching hues and finish by adding sprinkles or candies for a special touch! Always let the frosting set before stacking or storing cookies.

Conclusion on Classic Sugar Cookies

Why you should bake these cookies today!

There's never a wrong time to whip up a batch of classic sugar cookies! Whether you’re prepping for a gathering or just craving something sweet, these cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. Their versatility shines with personalized decorations, and the comforting aroma of baking fills your home with joy. So grab your ingredients—your taste buds will thank you!