There’s something so nostalgic about sugar cookies with their soft centers, golden edges, and sweet simplicity.
These cookies are buttery, light, and perfect for any occasion—from holiday baking to everyday treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The dough is simple to mix, requiring just basic pantry staples.
They bake into soft, chewy cookies with a light crunch on the edges.
The sugar coating adds sparkle and sweetness in every bite.
They’re versatile—delicious plain or perfect for decorating.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
All-purpose flour creates the structure and soft crumb.
Baking soda and baking powder help the cookies rise just enough.
Butter adds richness and keeps the cookies tender.
Granulated sugar sweetens and creates the classic sugar cookie texture.
Vanilla extract enhances flavor, while almond extract gives a subtle twist.
Milk helps bring the dough together for easy rolling.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Soften the butter fully for easy creaming with sugar.
Don’t skip rolling the dough in sugar—it gives sparkle and crunch.
Bake just until edges are golden for a chewy center.
Cool on wire racks so cookies don’t overbake on the sheet.
How to Make Sugar Cookies
Step 1 – Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2 – Mix dry ingredients
Whisk flour, baking soda, and baking powder together in a medium bowl.
Step 3 – Cream butter and sugar
Beat softened butter with sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4 – Add egg and extracts
Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
Step 5 – Combine wet and dry
Gradually blend in dry ingredients. Add milk as needed to form a soft dough.
Step 6 – Shape the cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in sugar, and place on prepared sheets.
Step 7 – Bake and cool
Bake 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire racks.
What to Serve Them With
Serve with a glass of milk for a classic treat.
Pair with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy snack.
Use as a base for ice cream sandwiches.
Variations / Substitutions
Add sprinkles to the dough for festive fun.
Swap almond extract with lemon or orange zest.
Frost with royal icing or buttercream for decorated cookies.
Make smaller bite-size versions for parties.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
Freeze unbaked dough balls and bake directly from frozen, adding a minute to the bake time.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, but chilling helps control spreading if the dough is soft.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt if using salted butter.
Can I skip the almond extract?
Absolutely, it’s optional and the cookies will still taste great.
Why roll in sugar before baking?
It gives sparkle, texture, and enhances sweetness.
Can I frost these cookies?
Yes, they’re perfect for icing or sprinkles.
What’s the secret to chewy sugar cookies?
Bake until just set, leaving the centers slightly soft.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, it scales easily for larger batches.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for best results.
How do I know they’re done?
The edges should be golden while the centers remain pale and soft.
Final Thoughts
These sugar cookies are buttery, sweet, and timeless.
Whether you keep them simple or dress them up, they’re always a hit at parties, holidays, or as a comforting homemade treat.
