Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

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Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe captures the essence of comfort food in a delectable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy cookie that melts in your mouth, with a hint of vanilla and just the right amount of sweetness. These cookies, with their slightly crisp edges and soft centers, are just calling your name! Whether you’re baking for a special celebration or simply treating yourself, this step-by-step recipe makes it easy to whip up a batch that will delight friends and family alike.

Every bite of these soft sugar cookies brings back memories of childhood, cozy kitchens, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the air. This recipe is worth making because it combines simplicity with joy, perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, the delightful versatility of sugar cookies allows for numerous variations; you can top them with sprinkles, frosting, or simply enjoy them plain.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to baking cookies, soft sugar cookies check all the right boxes. First and foremost, they boast easy prep. You only need a handful of common ingredients to create something truly special. This recipe is incredibly family-friendly, making it a great choice for baking together, whether you’re teaching kids to stir or letting them sprinkle the colored sugar on top.

These cookies come together quickly—perfect for those impromptu gatherings or when a craving hits. Furthermore, this traditional recipe is a time-honored classic that never goes out of style. The minimal ingredients needed make it accessible, meaning you’re likely to have everything on hand already!

Ingredients for Soft Sugar Cookies

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of any good cookie.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – this will help your cookies rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – for added fluffiness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to balance the sweetness.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – the key to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and a lovely crisp.
• 1 large egg – binds ingredients together for a perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for a rich, sweet flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) – adding a subtle nutty essence.
• 3–4 tablespoons milk (as needed) – ensures the right dough consistency.
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for topping – because aesthetically pleasing cookies are always a hit!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures easy cleanup later on and helps the cookies bake evenly.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step incorporates air into the flour, providing a lighter texture to your cookies.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating an airy dough.

4. Incorporate the egg, pure vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) into the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing gently until a soft dough forms. It’s important to avoid over-mixing at this stage.

6. If the dough seems too stiff, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches a soft consistency that you can scoop and shape.

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening the tops slightly for even baking.

8. Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top of each cookie; this will add a festive touch.

9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are barely golden. Be careful not to overbake; you want them soft!

10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Bringing your butter to room temperature allows it to cream better with the sugar for a fluffy texture.

• Chilling the Dough: For extra softness and a chewier texture, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for unique variations.

• Decorate Creatively: Beyond colored sugar, consider using icing or edible glitter for a special touch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These soft sugar cookies shine on their own, but they also make an excellent pairing with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea. For festive occasions, serve them alongside a platter of assorted cookies or pastries. Consider creating cookie sandwiches with a layer of buttercream or whipped frosting in between two cookies for an extra indulgent treat!

Nutritional Information

Each soft sugar cookie (based on the batch making about 24 cookies) contains approximately:

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 1g

Indulging in these cookies brings a sweet treat to your day, and they’re sure to add a smile to everyone’s faces.

Storing Tips & Variations for Soft Sugar Cookies

To store your soft sugar cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay soft and fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, where they can last for up to three months.

Feel free to swap regular all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour, or reduce sugar for a lighter version. You can also substitute the almond extract with lemon or orange extract to create a zesty flavor.

Conclusion for Soft Sugar Cookies

Whether you’re an avid baker or someone trying cookies for the first time, this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe will soon be a favorite in your baking repertoire. With its easy instructions and deliciously soft results, you’ll want to whip up a batch regularly. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and start creating delightful moments with these scrumptious cookies today!

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   While butter provides the best flavor and texture, margarine can be used as a substitute, although the results may vary.

2. How do I know when my cookies are done?
   Look for edges that are beginning to turn golden. The centers should still be soft when removed from the oven, as they will firm up while cooling.

3. Can I double this recipe?
   Absolutely! Just ensure you have a large enough mixing bowl to accommodate all the ingredients.

4. Why are my cookies spread too much?
   This can happen if the dough is too warm or if the butter is too soft. Ensure your butter is just softened, and if you’re experiencing excess spreading, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking.

5. Can these be made ahead of time?
   Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, baked cookies can be stored for a week.

Enjoy your baking adventure!

Soft Sugar Cookies

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Deliciously soft sugar cookies that melt in your mouth, perfect for any occasion.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 3–4 tablespoons milk (as needed)
• Colored sugar or sprinkles for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add in egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
6. If the dough is too stiff, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place on prepared baking sheet, flattening slightly.
8. Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top before baking.
9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are barely golden.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For extra softness, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can also experiment with flavors by adding chocolate chips or dried fruit.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

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