Description
Sweet sugar cookies promise pure comfort with their delicate edges and rich buttery center. Homemade classic treats invite bakers to savor each delightful crumb, creating memories of warmth and happiness.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (230 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 2 ¾ cups (340 grams) all-purpose flour
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Leavening and Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring an even cooking surface.
- Create a dry ingredient mixture by whisking flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl, creating a uniform base for the cookies.
- Transform butter and granulated sugar into a light, airy mixture by beating them together for 2-3 minutes, developing a creamy texture.
- Incorporate moisture and flavor by adding egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture, blending until smooth and well integrated.
- Gently combine wet and dry ingredients, mixing carefully to avoid overmixing and maintain the cookie’s delicate texture.
- Form perfect cookie portions by scooping dough into small balls, then rolling each in extra granulated sugar for a sweet, crystalline exterior. Arrange the coated dough balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing them to allow for spreading.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, watching for a subtle golden edge while keeping the centers soft and slightly underbaked for optimal chewiness.
- Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling, preserving their tender texture and ensuring easy removal.
Notes
- Soften butter ahead of time to room temperature for smooth, even creaming with sugar.
- Use room temperature egg to ensure better ingredient integration and consistent cookie texture.
- Chill dough for 15-30 minutes before rolling to prevent excessive spreading during baking.
- Avoid overmixing cookie dough to maintain tender, soft texture and prevent tough cookies.
- Rotate baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning and consistent cookie color.
- Swap almond extract with additional vanilla for nut-free version or different flavor profile.
- Store cookies in airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness up to 5 days.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cookie removal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg