There’s nothing like a batch of classic, buttery sugar cookies to satisfy your sweet cravings. This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe makes deliciously soft cookies with a slightly crisp edge and a melt-in-your-mouth center. With just a few basic ingredients and no fancy techniques required, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike.

I remember making these with my grandmother as a kid, decorating each cookie with colorful sprinkles and frosting. They’re great for any occasion – from holiday baking to everyday treats – and they’re as fun to make as they are to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe has everything you want in a sugar cookie. Here’s why these cookies will be a new favorite in your baking rotation:

First off, they’re quick and simple to make. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. The dough mixes up in just a few minutes and requires minimal chilling time, so you can go from mixing bowl to cookie tray fast.

These cookies have a soft, chewy texture that stays tender even after baking. The edges are lightly crisped, while the centers remain buttery and melt-in-your-mouth soft, making each bite a delight.

This recipe is perfect for decorating. The cookies hold their shape beautifully when baked, making them an ideal canvas for holiday or themed decorations. Top with frosting, sprinkles, or even a dusting of sugar – the possibilities are endless!

Finally, these cookies are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re baking for kids, parties, or just yourself, these classic sugar cookies are always a hit.

Ingredients Notes

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe relies on a few key ingredients to create perfect cookies every time. Here’s a closer look at each one:

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies, keeping them tender yet sturdy enough to hold their shape. Be sure to measure accurately for the best results.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives the cookies their signature sweetness and a slightly crisp edge. For an extra soft texture, try using a mix of granulated and powdered sugar.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. Let it soften at room temperature for easy mixing, as it creates a smooth, even dough and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
Egg: Eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients, creating a soft, tender crumb. Use large eggs for consistent results.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor. Use pure vanilla extract if possible – it makes a noticeable difference in taste!
Baking Powder: Helps the cookies rise just slightly, creating that soft, airy texture. Be sure to check that your baking powder is fresh for the best results.

For decorating, feel free to use colorful sprinkles, frosting, or sanding sugar to give your cookies a festive touch.

How To Make This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Making these Easy Sugar Cookies is straightforward and fun! Here’s how to bake up a batch of perfectly soft, buttery cookies:

Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Roll and Cut: If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes. Once firm, roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough, then place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Keep an eye on them, as over-baking can make the cookies crispy rather than soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate and Enjoy: Once the cookies are cool, add your favorite decorations. Whether it’s a sprinkle of colored sugar, a drizzle of icing, or a dollop of frosting, get creative!

From start to finish, these cookies take about 30 minutes to make, and the result is a batch of beautifully golden, soft cookies.

Storage Options

These Easy Sugar Cookies store well, making them a great make-ahead treat for any occasion. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a piece of parchment between layers to keep them from sticking together.
Refrigerator: You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then roll and cut when you’re ready to bake.
Freezing: Both the dough and baked cookies freeze well! Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking. For baked cookies, place them in an airtight container with parchment between layers and freeze for up to 2 months.

To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm, fresh-baked taste.

Variations and Substitutions

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest and a dash of lemon extract to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist that pairs perfectly with the buttery flavor.
Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies: Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie for a chocolatey touch. Sprinkle with sea salt or chopped nuts for an extra layer of flavor.
Spiced Sugar Cookies: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, cozy flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Frosted Sugar Cookies: Top each cookie with a layer of buttercream or royal icing, then add colorful sprinkles for a festive finish.
Almond Sugar Cookies: Replace half the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty, fragrant variation. This twist is especially delicious with a sprinkle of slivered almonds on top.

Experiment with these ideas, or create your own unique twist – these cookies are a fantastic base for endless creativity!

Conclousion

This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. With its tender texture, buttery flavor, and endless decorating possibilities, it’s a treat that brings joy to any occasion. Grab your favorite cookie cutters, get creative, and enjoy every delicious bite!