Classic Sugar Cookies with Variations
Delight in the timeless charm of Classic Sugar Cookies with Variations, a versatile recipe that combines buttery crispness and tender sweetness in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies start with a simple, no-fail base made from pantry staples like flour, butter, and sugar, and offer endless opportunities for customization. Upgrade the flavor with options like zesty Citrus Sugar Cookies, warm and fragrant Spiced Sugar Cookies, or indulgent Chocolate Sugar Cookies. With just 20 minutes of prep time, a short chill in the fridge ensures perfect rolling and shaping for a professional finish. Whether enjoyed plain or adorned with royal icing and sprinkles, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Ideal for holiday baking or everyday treats, this recipe is your go-to guide for beautifully crafted sugar cookies with a personal touch.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 unit large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (approximately 2-3 minutes).
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to firm up.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough, then transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Be careful not to overbake.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Decorate as desired with royal icing, sprinkles, or enjoy plain for a classic treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3648 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 199.7 g | 256% | |
| Saturated Fat | 123.5 g | 618% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 703 mg | 234% | |
| Sodium | 1738 mg | 76% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 432.3 g | 157% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 201.9 g | ||
| Protein | 39.3 g | 79% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.9 mcg | 20% | |
| Calcium | 119 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 15.0 mg | 83% | |
| Potassium | 450 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
