Classic sugar cookies with a soft, buttery interior and a satisfyingly crisp sugar coating, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:8 minutes
Total Time:88 minutes
Yield:24-36 cookies 1x
Ingredients
Scale
2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes). Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-3 hours.
Combine Sugar and Cinnamon (Optional): In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using).
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
Coat with Sugar: Dip each cookie in the sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the coated cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Use room temperature butter for best results.
Don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading.
Parchment paper prevents sticking.
Don’t overbake the cookies.
Let cookies cool completely before storing.
For variations, try adding different extracts or spices.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.