The Best Homemade Sugar Cookie Recipe

Crunchy, buttery sugar cookies with a hint of vanilla—perfectly golden edges and soft centers that melt in your mouth. These homemade delights are irresistible.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

These homemade sugar cookies are a treat that everyone will adore, perfect for any occasion or just a sweet snack. You’ll love how simple they are to make, with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. They’re soft and chewy****, with just the right amount of sweetness that melts in your mouth. They’re endlessly customizable**, so you can decorate them with your favorite sprinkles or icing. And they’re kid-friendly**, making them a fun activity for the whole family to enjoy together.

Recipe

soft sweet classic cookies

Soft, chewy, and irresistibly sweet, homemade sugar cookies are a classic treat perfect for any occasion. With their simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these cookies are a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just because, this recipe guarantees delicious results every time.

Ingredients:

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
  6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
  8. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes:

  • For a sprinkle of color, press decorative sugar or sprinkles onto the dough balls before baking.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Equipment:

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack

Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Cuisine: American

Serving: Makes approximately 36 cookies

Nutrition

These sugar cookies are a sweet treat, but it’s good to be mindful of their nutritional content.

Serving Size1 cookie (approx. 25g)
Calories120
Total Fat5g
Saturated Fat3g
Cholesterol15mg
Sodium85mg
Total Carbohydrates18g
Sugars10g
Protein1g

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade sugar cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee—it’s such a cozy combo! Fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced apples also adds a nice balance of sweetness and freshness. You can’t go wrong with these simple pairings to make your cookie time extra special.

Complementary Beverages

While sugar cookies shine on their own, pairing them with the right drink can make them even more special. I love serving them with a glass of cold milk—it’s classic, comforting, and balances the sweetness perfectly. For something warm, a cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, works wonders, especially in cooler weather. If I’m feeling fancy, a frothy latte or hot chocolate adds a fun twist. Coffee lovers might enjoy a smooth black coffee to contrast the cookie’s richness. These pairings elevate the experience, making each bite feel like a cozy treat. Try them out and see what you like best!

Fruit Pairings

Though sugar cookies are delicious on their own, adding fresh fruit can bring a bright, revitalizing twist to every bite. I love pairing them with tart berries like raspberries or strawberries—their juiciness balances the sweetness perfectly. Sliced apples or pears add a crisp texture, while a dollop of whipped cream turns it into a mini dessert. For something tropical, try mango or pineapple chunks; their tangy sweetness is irresistible. Even a simple banana slice works wonders. Experiment with seasonal fruits—they’ll keep each bite exciting. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want a plain sugar cookie again!

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