Sugar cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a sweet treat anytime. Their simplicity makes them a favorite for decorating, and they’re versatile enough to be shaped or flavored to your preference. Here’s a straightforward guide to making delicious sugar cookies from scratch.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Combine the dry ingredients:
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
3. Cream the butter and sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the wet ingredients:
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
Stir together the wet and dry ingredients to form a thick dough.
6. Chill the dough (optional but recommended):
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut shapes.
7. Roll and cut:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
8. Bake:
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden.
9. Cool and decorate:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or enjoy as is!
Decorating Ideas:
- Icing: Mix powdered sugar with a little water or milk for a simple glaze.
- Royal Icing: Use for detailed designs and hard-set decorations.
- Sprinkles: Add them before baking or sprinkle on top of wet icing for a fun, colorful finish.
Sugar cookies are great for gifting, parties, or just indulging in a sweet homemade treat. Enjoy!
Thanks for stoppin’ by!
Anne James has a wealth of experience in a wide array of interests and is an expert in quilting, cooking, gardening, camping, mixing drinks (bartending), and making jelly.
Anne has a professional canning business, has been featured in the local newspaper as well as on the Hershey website, and has been her family canner for decades. Anyone growing up in the South knows that there is always a person in the family who has knowledge of the “old ways,” and this is exactly what Anne is.
With over 55 years of experience in these endeavors, she brings a level of hands-on knowledge that is hard to surpass. Amazingly, she doesn’t need to reference many resources due to her vast wealth of experience. She IS the source.
Anne wants nothing more than to pass on her extensive knowledge to the next generations, whether that be family or anyone visiting her website, her YouTube channel, or survivalfreedom.com.
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