Delightfully simple yet irresistibly sweet, Refrigerator Sugar Cookies are the ultimate make-ahead treat for any occasion. This classic recipe combines pantry staples like unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract to create tender, buttery cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The dough is shaped into convenient logs and chilled, making it easy to slice and bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes. Perfect for customizing with sprinkles, icing, or your favorite toppings, these cookies are as versatile as they are delicious. With minimal prep and the option to freeze for later, this recipe is ideal for holiday baking or spontaneous sweet tooth moments. Bake up a batch to enjoy plain or decoratedβtheyβre guaranteed to impress!
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure tender cookies.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter.
Wrap each dough log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Dough can also be frozen for up to 3 months for later use.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Unwrap the chilled dough logs and slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife.
Place the slices about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn light golden brown.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy plain, or decorate with sprinkles, icing, or your favorite toppings. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Calories |
2792 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 106.7 g | 137% | |
| Saturated Fat | 58.5 g | 292% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 468 mg | 156% | |
| Sodium | 721 mg | 31% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 430.5 g | 157% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.2 g | 29% | |
| Total Sugars | 201.8 g | ||
| Protein | 38.4 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 92 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 14.8 mg | 82% | |
| Potassium | 434 mg | 9% | |
*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.