Why Make This Recipe
Soft Sugar Cookies are a classic treat that many people love. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party, a bake sale, or just a sweet snack at home. These cookies are soft, sweet, and can be decorated in fun ways. Making them is easy, and you can customize them to your liking.
How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Decorating icing (royal icing) as desired
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredient mixture you set aside earlier.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass that you dipped in sugar.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on wire racks before decorating with royal icing.
How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies
You can serve Soft Sugar Cookies fresh from the oven, or let them cool completely before adding your favorite royal icing designs. They make a lovely treat on their own or can be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.
How to Store Soft Sugar Cookies
To keep your Soft Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage; just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Tips to Make Soft Sugar Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with different extracts or add-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added flavor and texture. For a festive twist, try using colored icing and sprinkles that match the season or occasion.
FAQs
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different texture.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The edges will be lightly golden, and the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months before baking.
Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure the butter is softened but not melted.
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For Decorating
- Decorating icing (royal icing) as desired
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredient mixture you set aside earlier.
Baking
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass that you dipped in sugar.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until they are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on wire racks before decorating with royal icing.
