Sugar cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. They’re simple to make, easy to share, and perfect for everything from holiday cookie trays to casual family gatherings. Their timeless appeal makes them a favorite recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
This homemade sugar cookie recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and comes together with minimal effort. Follow the step-by-step instructions below to create large, bakery-style cookies that are sure to become a regular addition to your baking collection.
1. Sugar Cookie Recipe (Yield: 16 Large Cookies)
Ingredients
- 2½ cups (318 grams) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
- 1¼ cups (250 grams) granulated sugar, plus ¼ cup (50 grams) for rolling
- 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sea salt until well combined. Set the dry ingredients aside.
Place the room-temperature butter and 1¼ cups granulated sugar into a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes light and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything mixes evenly.
Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue mixing until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture appears smooth.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed just until a soft cookie dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
Place the remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar in a shallow bowl. Using a large cookie scoop or measuring approximately 3 tablespoons of dough per cookie, portion the dough into 16 equal pieces.
Roll each portion into a smooth ball with your hands. Coat each dough ball in the granulated sugar, ensuring all sides are evenly covered.
Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 3 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
Using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup, gently flatten each dough ball slightly. The cookies will spread as they bake but should still maintain a thick, soft texture.
Bake one sheet at a time for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear just set. Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up while cooling.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them finish setting without becoming dry.
Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack and allow them to cool completely before serving or storing.
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
2. Tips for Perfect Homemade Sugar Cookies
Measure the flour accurately using a kitchen scale whenever possible. Too much flour can result in dense or dry cookies.
Use butter that is at cool room temperature rather than overly soft or melted. Properly softened butter creates the ideal cookie texture.
Bake the cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets to promote even baking and make cleanup easier.
Allow enough space between cookies on the baking sheet. These cookies spread during baking and need room to expand.
For thicker cookies, chill the dough balls for 20 to 30 minutes before baking.
Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots. This helps the cookies bake evenly.
Remove the cookies when the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue setting as they cool, resulting in a softer texture.
3. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?
Yes. The dough can be rolled into balls and frozen on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Why did my sugar cookies spread too much?
Excessive spreading can occur if the butter was too warm, the dough wasn’t measured properly, or the baking sheet was warm when the dough was placed on it. Starting with properly chilled dough can help reduce spreading.
Can I add sprinkles or decorations to the dough?
Absolutely. Sprinkles, colored sugar, or festive decorations can be added before baking to customize the cookies for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.
How should I store baked sugar cookies?
Store completely cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Placing a slice of bread in the container can help maintain softness for several days.
Can I make smaller cookies with this recipe?
Yes. Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and reduce the baking time by a few minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking.
4. Nutrition Information
The following nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands and serving sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Total Fat | 11g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 48mg |
| Sodium | 120mg |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Sugar | 16g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Potassium | 35mg |
Homemade sugar cookies are a classic recipe that belongs in every baker’s collection. Easy to prepare and made with simple ingredients, these cookies are perfect for holidays, celebrations, gift giving, or enjoying with family and friends throughout the year.
Keep this recipe handy whenever you’re looking for a reliable cookie that’s both simple and satisfying. With their soft texture and easy preparation, these homemade sugar cookies are sure to become a favorite that you’ll bake again and again.
