Classic Cookie Recipe: A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a homemade cookie fresh out of the oven, and this classic cookie recipe brings simplicity and flavor together in a delightful way. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a batch of golden, soft, and buttery cookies that are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy every sweet tooth!
Ingredients
To create this irresistible batch of cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (softened) |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create perfectly baked cookies every time:
-
Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is essential as it helps create the soft texture of the cookies. -
Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully incorporated. The egg binds the ingredients and adds richness, while the vanilla extract adds that classic aromatic flavor we all love. -
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients, mixing until everything comes together into a stiff dough. You may need to use a spatula or your hands to ensure all of the flour is fully incorporated into the dough. -
Shape the Dough
Once your dough is ready, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls using your hands. Place each dough ball on a baking sheet, flattening them slightly with your fingers to form cookie-shaped discs. Make sure to space them a couple of inches apart to allow for even spreading during baking. -
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Be sure to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking. -
Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them while they’re fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later!
Allergen Information
This cookie recipe contains the following potential allergens:
- Gluten (from the all-purpose flour)
- Dairy (from the butter)
- Eggs
Please be mindful of these ingredients when serving to others, and adjust the recipe accordingly if there are any dietary restrictions or allergies.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or animal byproducts (other than dairy and eggs).
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Make sure the baking powder is also gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make these cookies dairy-free, replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or vegetable oil, and check that the baking powder does not contain any dairy derivatives.
- Egg-Free Option: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 minutes), or another egg substitute of your choice.
Helpful Tips
- Customize the Flavor: If you want to add a bit of extra flair to your cookies, feel free to stir in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the dough.
- Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Oven Variations: Every oven is slightly different, so you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. Check your cookies at the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Conclusion
This classic cookie recipe is a delightful, no-fuss treat that yields soft and flavorful cookies every time. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these simple, golden cookies in no time. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a few with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies will always be a hit. Don’t forget to get creative with your ingredients, adding your favorite mix-ins, and enjoy the process of making this classic treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite!
