Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Sugar Cookies. These tender treats are a beloved staple in any baker’s repertoire, offering a perfect balance of buttery richness, subtle vanilla and almond flavors, and a satisfyingly soft texture. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, special occasion, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are sure to bring joy with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Buttery and Tender Texture: These sugar cookies are exceptionally soft and tender, thanks to the perfect ratio of butter and flour. Each bite melts in your mouth, leaving a delightful buttery flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Delicate Flavor Profile: Enhanced with vanilla and almond extracts, these cookies offer a nuanced flavor that is both comforting and familiar. The combination of these extracts adds depth without overwhelming the classic sugar cookie taste.
- Versatile and Easy to Customize: Whether you prefer them plain or adorned with a glaze and sprinkles, these cookies are versatile. They can be decorated to suit any occasion, making them perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want to add a touch of sweetness to your day.
- Family-Favorite Recipe: Loved by all ages, these cookies are a hit at gatherings and make a wonderful gift. Their simplicity and universal appeal make them a go-to recipe whenever you crave a homemade treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise and gives them a tender texture.
3. Add the Eggs and Extracts
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. These flavorings give the cookies their signature taste—warm, sweet, and slightly nutty.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
5. Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with your hand or the back of a spoon. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. You don’t want to overbake these cookies; they should remain soft and tender. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Glaze and Decorate
While the cookies cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle with your choice of sprinkles. Let the glaze set for about 30 minutes before serving or storing.
Serving Suggestions
• Festive Platter: Arrange these cookies on a holiday-themed platter for a beautiful presentation at parties or gatherings.
• Gifting: Package them in decorative tins or boxes with a festive ribbon for a delightful homemade gift.
• Pair with Beverages: Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of milk for a classic and cozy treat.
Tips:
- Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in your cookies.
- For a richer flavor, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk in the glaze.
- Customize your cookies with different colors of sprinkles or add edible glitter for a festive touch.
Storage Options:
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Enjoy these Classic Sugar Cookies as a delightful treat that’s sure to bring smiles and warm memories to your kitchen!