If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s easy to make, this sugar cookie recipe is just what you need! With its soft texture and sweet flavor, these cookies are perfect for decorating or enjoying plain. Whether for holidays, birthdays, or just because, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Let’s get started on creating these delicious cookies!
Ingredients
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ½ cups white sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon almond extract
– 3 tablespoons colored sugar (for decoration)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 50mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 21g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
5. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
6. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
8. Sprinkle colored sugar on top of each cookie.
9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden.
10. Remove from oven and let cool on wire racks.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Also, if you’re out of almond extract, you can use additional vanilla extract for flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These sugar cookies are perfect with a glass of milk or as a sweet treat alongside coffee or tea. They are also great for decorating with icing for festive occasions.
Storage and Reheating
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. For best results, let them thaw at room temperature.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overmix the dough; this can lead to tough cookies.
– Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
– Avoid baking on a hot cookie sheet; let it cool between batches.
– Use a measuring scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
– Don’t skip chilling the dough if it seems too sticky.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different extracts for unique flavors.
– Chill the dough for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.
– Use parchment paper on your baking sheets for easy cleanup.
– Decorate with icing right after cooling for better adhesion.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, substituting brown sugar will give your cookies a deeper flavor and a slightly chewy texture.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can add food coloring to the dough or decorate with icing and sprinkles to match any occasion.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
Making sugar cookies is a delightful activity that results in a sweet treat for everyone to enjoy. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create delicious cookies perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or decorated, these cookies are sure to please!
Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
- 3 tablespoons colored sugar for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Sprinkle colored sugar on top of each cookie.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool on wire racks.
