Classic Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a timeless classic, perfect for every occasion, from holiday baking to birthday treats. These cookies have a light, buttery texture with a crisp edge and soft center, making them ideal for icing and decorating.

This easy sugar cookie recipe requires simple ingredients and no chilling, so you can have delicious homemade cookies in under 30 minutes! Whether you enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or decorated with royal icing, these cookies are always a hit.

Ingredients (Makes 24 Cookies)

For the Sugar Cookie Dough:

All-purpose flour – 300 g (2 ½ cups)
Granulated sugar – 150 g (¾ cup)
Unsalted butter (softened) – 170 g (¾ cup)
Egg – 1 large
Vanilla extract – 2 tsp
Baking powder – 1 tsp
Salt – ¼ tsp

For the Optional Sugar Glaze:

Powdered sugar – 150 g (1 ¼ cups)
Milk – 2 tbsp
Vanilla extract – ½ tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar together with a whisk or spatula until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
Sift in flour, baking powder, and salt, then mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape & Bake

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Add Glaze (Optional)

In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Drizzle over the cooled cookies or dip the tops for a glossy finish.
Let the glaze set before stacking the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

✔ Classic & Simple – Enjoy plain or lightly dusted with powdered sugar.
✔ With Sprinkles – Add colored sugar or sprinkles before baking.
✔ Iced & Decorated – Decorate with royal icing or buttercream for festive cookies.
✔ Sandwich Cookies – Fill with Nutella, jam, or vanilla frosting for a special treat.

Nutrition Information (Per Cookie – Based on 24 Cookies)

Calories: 130 kcal
Protein: 1.5 g
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 0.3 g
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 40 mg

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sugar Cookies

✔ Use Softened Butter – This helps create a smooth, even dough.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined for tender cookies.
✔ Flour Your Rolling Pin – Prevents the dough from sticking.
✔ For Extra Flavor – Add ½ tsp almond extract or lemon zest.
✔ Cool Before Decorating – Ensures icing won’t melt.