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Classic Sugar Cookies

This recipe involves creaming butter and sugar, mixing in flour and vanilla, then rolling out and cutting the dough into shapes before baking. The final cookies are crisp on the edges with a tender, slightly chewy center, and have a smooth, glazed surface after baking. The process emphasizes gentle mixing and precise baking time to achieve the perfect texture.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • Unsalted butter 1 cup, softened: Creates a rich, buttery flavor and smooth texture in the cookies.
  • Granulated sugar 1 cup: Sweetens the dough and helps create a slight crisp on the edges.
  • Large egg 1: Binds the dough and contributes to the cookies’ texture.
  • Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons: Adds a warm, fragrant flavor that complements the butter.
  • All-purpose flour 2 ¾ cups: Forms the structure of the cookies and gives them their delicate texture.
  • Baking powder ½ teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a soft, airy texture.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Rolling pin (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
  6. If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
  7. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  8. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your hand.
  9. Optionally, sprinkle sugar on top of each cookie for a sweet, crunchy finish.
  10. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Enjoy your freshly baked, buttery sugar cookies!