Can I Skip Chilling the Dough?

You might be tempted to skip the chilling step when making a sugar cookie recipe , but honestly, it’s worth the wait! Chilling helps firm up the butter, so your cookies hold their shape better while baking. Without it, your cookies might spread into a giant, flat mess. If you're short on time, even a quick 20-minute chill can make a big difference.

How Do I Make My Sugar Cookies More Flavorful?

Want to take your sugar cookie recipe from good to unforgettable? A splash more vanilla extract is a fast fix. You can also add a tiny pinch of salt to boost the sweetness. Feeling adventurous? Try a drop of almond extract or a sprinkle of citrus zest. Small tweaks can totally elevate the flavor without changing the classic vibe.

What’s the Best Thickness for Cutting Sugar Cookies?

The ideal thickness for cut-out sugar cookies is around 1/4 inch. This gives the cookies enough strength to hold fun shapes without being too thick or doughy. Roll the dough evenly — if some spots are thinner than others, your cookies might bake unevenly. A simple rolling pin guide or two stacked chopsticks on either side of the dough works wonders!

Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?

Technically, yes — but it’s not the best choice if you’re chasing that rich, buttery flavor. Margarine can make your sugar cookie recipe a little greasier and less flavorful. If you must substitute, pick a stick margarine with high fat content (not a tub version) to get closer to the real deal.

Perfect Sugar Cookie Recipe for Every Occasion

Description

This sugar cookie recipe is your go-to guide for baking soft, chewy, or crisp cookies with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to customize with colorful frosting and toppings, delivering that classic homemade taste every time.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups white granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
Roll dough into walnut-sized balls and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers are still soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for best results.
Use parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking.
Swap a little vanilla extract with almond extract for a flavor twist.
Pull cookies out of the oven when the centers still look soft to keep them chewy.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT10M
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 86
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 60mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 14mg

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