3 Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These 3-ingredient easy sugar cookies are the perfect simple treat for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and fuss, they deliver a soft, buttery cookie that’s both delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (optional, but recommended)
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. If using, add the vanilla and mix well.
- Step 3: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Avoid over-mixing.
- Step 4: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Step 5: Lightly press down each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm to flatten slightly. Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar and optional sprinkles on top.
- Step 6: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
- Step 7: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, try using browned butter instead of regular softened butter.
- Substitute some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added fiber.
- Try adding lemon or almond extract in place of vanilla for a different aromatic touch.
- Press chocolate chips or chopped nuts on top before baking instead of sprinkles.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in a warm oven for a freshly baked feel.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies without vanilla?
Yes, vanilla is optional but recommended for extra flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, you can skip it or try other extracts like almond or lemon.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is soft but not melted, and avoid adding too much flour. Refrigerating the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking can also help reduce spreading.
Print3 Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
These Easy 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies are a simple and delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Made with just butter, sugar, and flour, these cookies are buttery, sweet, and tender. Optional vanilla and sprinkles add an extra touch of flavor and fun. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a quick bake, these sugar cookies deliver classic homemade taste without fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: 22-25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended)
Decoration (Optional)
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter with 2/3 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air for a tender cookie base.
- Add Flour and Vanilla: Gradually add the flour to the butter mixture, mixing gently until the dough forms. Stir in the vanilla extract if using, which enhances the flavor.
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Form Cookies: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop small mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar evenly over each cookie for extra sweetness and crunch. Add rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils if desired for a colorful finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The center will be soft but set.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breaking while hot.
Notes
- Butter should be softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- If you prefer a stronger vanilla flavor, you can add up to 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- For a slightly crispier cookie, flatten the dough slightly before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze dough balls before baking and bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to baking time.
Keywords: easy sugar cookies, 3 ingredient cookies, simple sugar cookies, buttery cookies, quick cookie recipe
