Chewy Sugar Cookies

🎉 Introduction

🍪 Get ready to indulge in the ultimate treat with these Chewy Sugar Cookies! This recipe will help you create the perfect balance of softness and chewiness without the need for chilling the dough. These cookies are ideal for any occasion, but their sugary sweetness makes them a favorite during the holiday season. Whether you choose to eat them plain or frost them with your favorite icing, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends!

🧰 Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cookie scoop
• Cooling rack

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• ¾ cup powdered sugar for rolling

👩‍🍳 Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Use a cookie scoop to portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Roll each dough ball in powdered sugar before baking for an extra sweet touch.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

🍽️ Servings & Timing

Makes about 24 cookies. Prep time: 15 minutes, Cook time: 12 minutes, Total time: 27 minutes.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months. To reheat, simply place cookies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

🥄 Variations

• Add chocolate chips for a chewy chocolate chip sugar cookie twist.
• Incorporate sprinkles for a festive touch, especially during holidays.
• Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor.
• Add lemon zest or orange zest for a citrusy flavor variation.

❓ FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q: How can I make these cookies softer?
A: To achieve a softer cookie, slightly underbake them. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.

Q: What can I use instead of butter?
A: You can use margarine or a plant-based butter alternative for dairy-free cookies.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Q: How long do these cookies last?
A: These cookies can last up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
A: Yes, using brown sugar will make the cookies chewier and add a slight molasses flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have almond extract?
A: You can simply omit the almond extract, or replace it with an additional half teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Q: Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans make a delicious addition to the cookie dough.

Q: Is there a vegan option for these cookies?
A: You can substitute the egg with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer, and use vegan butter.

Q: How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
A: The cookies are done when the edges start to turn golden brown, while the centers remain soft.

🏁 Conclusion

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, especially during the festive season. Their soft, chewy texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for sharing with loved ones or simply enjoying on your own. Bake a batch today, and you may just find them becoming a new family favorite!