Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies – The Easiest Recipe Ever!

Introduction

Looking for a quick and easy sugar cookie recipe that guarantees soft, chewy, and delicious results? This is my go-to recipe! These sugar cookies are perfectly tender with just the right amount of chewiness. Plus, they come together in minutes using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to make – No fancy ingredients or techniques required.
✔ Soft & chewy texture – The perfect balance of tenderness and chewiness.
✔ Great for any occasion – Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious sugar cookies, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

2½ cups (318 grams) all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon fine sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature
1¼ cups (250 grams) granulated sugar, plus ¼ cup (50 grams) for rolling
1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer with a paddle attachment to beat the butter and 1¼ cups sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating on low speed until a soft dough forms.

Step 6: Form the Cookie Dough Balls

Place the remaining ¼ cup sugar in a small dish. Use a 3-tablespoon scoop to form dough balls, then roll them in sugar until evenly coated.

Step 7: Flatten and Bake

Arrange the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently press them down with the bottom of a measuring cup to slightly flatten.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and just beginning to turn golden brown.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Best Sugar Cookies

✔ Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue cooking as they cool. Remove them from the oven when they are just set.

✔ Use Cool Butter: Butter should be soft but not melted for the perfect texture.

✔ Rolling in Sugar: This adds an extra crunch and makes them visually appealing!

✔ Customize with Add-Ins: Try adding sprinkles, cinnamon, or even a hint of almond extract for a twist.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Storing at Room Temperature

Place cookies in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing the Dough

Scoop the dough into balls and roll in sugar.
Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 2 minutes to the bake time.

Freezing Baked Cookies

Allow cookies to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes! Just reduce the sea salt to ½ teaspoon to balance the flavors.

2. Why are my cookies too hard?

Overbaking or using too much flour can cause hard cookies. Make sure to measure flour correctly and remove cookies as soon as they are set.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours before baking.

4. Can I add frosting to these cookies?

Yes! A simple vanilla or cream cheese frosting would be delicious.

5. How do I get perfect round cookies?

If your cookies spread unevenly, use a round cookie cutter or a spoon to shape them right after baking while they’re still warm.

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Chewy Sugar Cookies