Step-by-step instructions
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 2-3 minutes.
Then add in your egg along with the vanilla and almond extracts if you’re using them. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop once you see no more dry flour!
With clean hands, roll the dough into 2-ounce balls. Coat each ball in the reserved granulated sugar for that extra crunch.
Place the dough balls in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) as the dough chills.
Once chilled, arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2-3 inches between each one.
Bake them in the oven for 11-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the center looks puffy and slightly cracked.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are delightful all on their own, but if you want to elevate your treat, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious cookie sundae. They pair beautifully with hot beverages like coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a fun twist, you could also sandwich some frosting between two cookies for a sweet surprise!
The best way to save extras
To keep these delectable cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should retain their softness for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just roll them, coat them in sugar, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready, bake directly from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the bake time!
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this helps blend it properly with the sugar for that fluffy texture.
- If you accidentally over-mix the dough, don’t worry too much—just avoid it next time.
- Chilling the dough is crucial for soft cookies that don’t spread too much while baking.
Creative twists
Why not spice things up a bit? Consider adding sprinkles to the dough before rolling, or you can swap out half of the all-purpose flour for almond flour to impart a nutty flavor. If you enjoy a burst of fruitiness, try mixing some chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the dough; the possibilities are endless!
Common questions
How long does it take to make Sugar Cookies?
The total time includes about 10-15 minutes of prep and about 11-12 minutes of baking, plus a 30-minute chill time for the dough.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Brown sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture.
How should I handle the dough if it gets too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, chill it for a bit longer. You can also use a bit of flour on your hands when rolling the cookie balls.
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a reminder of sweet moments spent with loved ones. Once you make them, you’ll understand why they’re a classic!
