Introduction

Sugar cookies are a classic treat that is simple to make and deliciously sweet. With a crisp edge and a soft center, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday baking to everyday snacks.

Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

100g unsalted butter, softened
100g caster sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
25g cornflour
250g plain flour

Instructions

Step 1: Beat the butter and sugar with an electric whisk for 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 3: Whisk in the cornflour and plain flour until the mixture comes together into a dough.
Step 4: Place the dough between two pieces of baking parchment and roll out to a thickness of 6mm using a rolling pin. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6.
Step 6: Remove the top layer of parchment from the dough and use a 6cm round cutter, or your preferred shape, to stamp out cookies. Re-roll any scraps and continue cutting until all the dough is used.
Step 7: Transfer the cookies to a baking sheet lined with parchment, spacing them 2cm apart. You may need two sheets.
Step 8: Bake for 7-10 minutes, then leave to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding lemon zest or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough before chilling.
If you want chewier cookies, bake for the shorter time mentioned and remove as soon as the edges are set.
Decorate your sugar cookies with icing or sprinkles once cooled for a festive touch.

Storage

Store sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If they soften, refresh them briefly in a warm oven before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out and cutting.

What makes sugar cookies soft or crispy?

The baking time and thickness influence the texture. Thinner cookies baked longer will be crispier, while slightly thicker ones baked for less time remain soft.

Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 139 reviews

Classic sugar cookies that are soft, buttery, and lightly crisp on the edges. These easy-to-make cookies are rolled out, cut into shapes, and baked to golden perfection, perfect for any occasion or a simple sweet treat.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 to 10 minutes
Total Time: 52 to 55 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies (6cm diameter) 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

25g cornflour
250g plain flour

Wet Ingredients

100g unsalted butter, softened
100g caster sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the dough: Beat the softened butter and caster sugar together using an electric whisk for 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the butter and sugar creating a smooth texture.
Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix well to distribute flavor evenly.
Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually whisk in the cornflour and plain flour until the mixture forms a cohesive dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough to keep the cookies tender.
Roll out and chill: Place the dough between two pieces of baking parchment and roll it out evenly to a thickness of 6mm using a rolling pin. Chill the rolled dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up for easier cutting.
Preheat oven: Set the oven temperature to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens) or gas mark 6 to prepare for baking.
Cut out shapes: Remove the top layer of parchment from the dough and use a 6cm round cutter (or your preferred shape) to stamp out cookies. Re-roll the leftover dough scraps and continue cutting until all dough is used.
Arrange and bake: Transfer the cut cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2cm apart to allow for slight spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 7 to 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool the cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they retain their crisp texture.
Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to one week to keep them fresh.

Notes

Softened butter is key for achieving the right cookie texture; avoid melting the butter.
Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
You can customize the cookie shapes using various cutters or add sprinkles before baking for decoration.
Make sure to space cookies adequately on the baking sheet for even cooking.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness and freshness.

Keywords: sugar cookies, classic cookies, vanilla cookies, buttery cookies, simple dessert, homemade cookies