sugar cookies
Experience pure, unadulterated buttery sweetness that evokes childhood memories with every bite through these sugar cookies, offering endless creativity and quick indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: powdered sugar and milk/lemon juice for glaze
Instructions
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the large egg and stir in the vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to form a soft dough.
- Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, flatten into discs, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out one disc of chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness, cut out shapes with cookie cutters, and place on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden; cool on baking sheets for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Once cooled, decorate with glaze or icing as desired.
Notes
"Don't skip the chilling step! It solidifies the butter and prevents spreading during baking." n "For a softer texture, slightly underbake and use a mix of granulated and brown sugar."