Classic Sugar Cookies (with Variations) Recipe 🍪
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 50 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 42-48 cookies
Description:
These classic sugar cookies are incredibly easy to make and are perfect for cutting into various shapes and decorating according to your preference. The dough is simple to work with, but if it gets too soft, just pop it back into the fridge for a quick chill. This recipe also includes variations to suit different tastes, making it versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a medium speed electric mixer until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue beating until everything is well-combined.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda.
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Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
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Chill Dough: Wrap the dough tightly with cling wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
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Roll Out Dough: Once chilled, turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/8″ thickness.
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Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters or the rim of an inverted wine glass to cut out cookies from the rolled dough. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
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Optional Sugar Topping: Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with sugar if desired for a little extra sweetness and sparkle.
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Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are set but not yet browned.
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Cool: Transfer the baked cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
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Storage Option: If desired, you can roll the dough into a log shape and freeze it until firm. Then, simply slice and bake as needed.
Variations:
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Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon finely chopped lemon zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the butter and sugar mixture for a refreshing citrus twist.
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Raisin Sugar Cookies: Stir 3/4 cup of raisins into the dough after combining the dry ingredients for a chewy, fruity addition.
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Nut Sugar Cookies: Add 3/4 cup of finely chopped toasted walnuts, pecans, or your choice of nuts into the dough after combining the dry ingredients for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
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Sugar and Spice Cookies: Enhance the flavor by adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of ground cloves to the dough along with the flour.
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Frosted Sugar Cookies: Skip the sprinkling of sugar on top of the cookies and instead, prepare a simple frosting by beating together 1 cup of icing sugar, 1 tablespoon of water or milk, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a few drops of food coloring if desired. Frost the cookies after baking while they are still slightly warm for a delightful finish.
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Chocolate Cookies: For chocolate lovers, melt 2 oz. of bittersweet chocolate and stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly and then add it to the dough after mixing in the vanilla extract for rich chocolatey goodness.
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Marbled/Two-Toned Cookies: Create a visually stunning effect by melting 1 oz. of bittersweet chocolate, stirring until smooth, and letting it cool slightly. After forming the dough, divide it into two portions. Mix the melted chocolate into one portion and knead gently to evenly distribute it. Then, combine both doughs and roll them out as usual for beautiful marbled cookies.
These classic sugar cookies are not only delicious on their own but also provide endless opportunities for creativity and customization. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone! Enjoy experimenting with different shapes, decorations, and flavor variations to make them your own.
