Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

Sugar cookies are a timeless treat, loved for their simplicity and versatility. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a sweet snack, these cookies are known for their crisp edges, soft centers, and buttery sweetness. Here’s a classic recipe to make your own delightful sugar cookies.

Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
• Eggs: 1 large
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons
• Almond Extract (optional): 1/2 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Preparation:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

1. Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

1. Add Eggs and Extracts:

• Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.

1. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

1. Forming the Cookies:

• Roll the dough into balls or use cookie cutters to create shapes. If the dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

1. Baking:

• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Decorating (Optional):

• Once cooled, decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or sugar decorations as desired.

Tips and Variations

• Chill the Dough: For best results, chill the dough for at least 1 hour. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Flavour Variations: Experiment with different extracts like lemon, orange, or peppermint for a twist.
• Icing: For a simple icing, mix powdered sugar with a little milk or lemon juice until you get a smooth, spreadable consistency.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Sugar cookies are not only delicious but also a fun baking project, especially when it comes to decorating. Whether you keep them simple or dress them up, they’re sure to be a hit! Enjoy your baking and the joy of sharing these sweet treats.