The Best Sugar Cookie Recipe
This recipe has stood the test of time for over 25 years, offering dough that’s easy to handle and results in buttery, delicious cookies. It’s perfect for holidays, school parties, or any occasion when you need reliable and beautiful sugar cookies.
Ingredients
(Makes about 36 cookies, depending on size)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds great flavor!)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough
- Divide the dough into two discs and wrap each in plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight). This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll out.
3. Roll and Cut
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough. Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Gather and re-roll the scraps, continuing to cut shapes until all the dough is used.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorating Tips
- For Simple Decoration: Sprinkle the cookies with sanding sugar or sprinkles before baking.
- For Iced Cookies: Use royal icing or a simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a splash of milk and vanilla). Decorate with piping, or dip cookies in the glaze and let them set.
- Make It Festive: Use holiday-themed cutters and food coloring to match the season!
Storage Tips
- At Room Temperature: Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freeze: Both the dough and baked cookies freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw dough in the fridge overnight before rolling, or let cookies come to room temperature before decorating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Handle: The dough is firm yet pliable, making it perfect for rolling and re-rolling without breaking.
- Great Taste: A buttery flavor with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Perfect Texture: Crisp edges and a soft, tender center.
This recipe isn’t just for Christmas—it’s perfect for every holiday or celebration. From hearts on Valentine’s Day to pumpkins at Halloween, these cookies will quickly become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Thank you for sharing this gem of a recipe that has brought so much joy and inspiration!