Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
Sugar cookies are a timeless treat loved by people of all ages. Their simple sweetness, crisp edges, and soft centers make them the perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday party, or just to satisfy a craving, sugar cookies never fail to impress. This recipe is easy to follow, versatile, and can be customized with various shapes, frosting, or sprinkles.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional toppings:
Colored sugar sprinkles
Royal icing or melted chocolate for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your palm.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with colored sugar or leave plain for decorating later.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Methods and Tips
Chilling the Dough: For a firmer dough that holds shape better, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
Custom Shapes: Use cookie cutters for fun shapes during festive seasons.
Even Baking: Rotate baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
History of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies date back to the 1700s when German settlers in Pennsylvania created the original recipe. Known as Nazareth Sugar Cookies, these treats were named after the town of Nazareth, Pennsylvania. Over the years, sugar cookies have become a staple in many households, particularly during holiday seasons.
Benefits of Sugar Cookies
- Versatility: Sugar cookies can be adapted with different flavors, shapes, and decorations to suit any event.
- Ease of Preparation: The recipe requires basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
- Shared Joy: Baking and decorating sugar cookies is a fun activity for families and friends.
- Customizable Nutrition: By adjusting the sugar or using whole-grain flour, you can make them slightly healthier.
Formation and Decorating Ideas
Shapes: Hearts, stars, trees, animals – unleash your creativity!
Decorations: Use royal icing, sprinkles, edible glitter, or even chocolate drizzle.
Layering: Create sandwich cookies with a layer of jam or frosting in the middle.
Nutrition (Per Cookie)
Note: Values are approximate and vary based on size and ingredients.
Calories: 110
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Conclusion
Sugar cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a vessel for creativity, a tradition passed through generations, and a universal comfort food. Their simplicity allows for endless customization, making them a favorite among bakers and eaters alike.
Sugar Cookie Lovers
Sugar cookie fans range from kids to adults, bakers to food enthusiasts. They are cherished by holiday enthusiasts who enjoy decorating them, as well as those who love a simple, no-fuss dessert. From cookie swaps to afternoon tea, sugar cookies always bring joy .