Easy Sugar Cookies
These easy sugar cookies are the perfect combination of soft and slightly crispy with a touch of sweetness, making them an ideal treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, room temperature Provides moisture and richness
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided Sweetness and texture
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided Additional for sprinkling, optional
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled Structure and stability
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled Additional for the dough
- 1 teaspoon vanilla Optional, but recommended; adds depth of flavor
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils Optional, for visual appeal
Instructions
Preparation
- Cream the room-temperature butter and 2/3 cup of the granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl until smooth and light in color.
- Add the vanilla (if using) and mix until just combined.
- Gradually add the flour into the creamed mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated.
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper if desired.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- If using sprinkles, gently press them into the tops of the dough balls.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are lightly golden, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature butter, chill the dough, and measure flour accurately. Optional variations include adding citrus zest, chocolate chips, or a cinnamon sugar roll.