Easy Sugar Cookies
🎉 Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of Easy Sugar Cookies! These cookies are not just any ordinary treats; they are soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet, making them an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe promises to deliver cookies that everyone will love. Best of all, they require basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. So, let’s get started and whip up a batch of these irresistible cookies!
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutter (optional)
- Cooling rack
🛒 Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sprinkles or colored sugar (optional, for decoration)
👩🍳 Directions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: If desired, fold in the sprinkles or colored sugar for an extra festive touch.
Step 7: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your hand to achieve a smooth surface.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges start to turn a light golden brown.
Step 10: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
🍽️ Servings & Timing
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Prep time is about 15 minutes, cook time is 10 minutes, and the total time is around 25 minutes.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds until warm.
🥄 Variations
- Add citrus zest (like lemon or orange) for a fresh twist.
- Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Experiment with different extracts such as coconut or mint.
- Incorporate chocolate chips for a chocolatey version.
- Substitute half the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, margarine can be used, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Q: How can I make these cookies softer?
A: Ensure not to overbake the cookies; they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out for a soft texture.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.
Q: What can I use instead of eggs?
A: You can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.
Q: Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?
A: Yes, you can use a whisk and some elbow grease to mix the ingredients by hand.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: The edges should be lightly golden while the centers may look a little soft; they will firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I decorate these cookies?
A: Yes, you can frost them with icing or add sprinkles before baking for extra fun!
Q: What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
A: You can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough reaches the right consistency.
Q: Can I use different types of sugar?
A: Yes, you can experiment with different sugars, but this will alter the flavor and texture.
Q: How can I make these cookies festive for holidays?
A: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters and colored sugars to decorate them!
🏁 Conclusion
And there you have it—your very own batch of Easy Sugar Cookies! These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any gathering or celebration. Whether you enjoy them plain, decorated, or with added flavors, they are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share them with friends and family, and happy baking!
