Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe
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
Dry Ingredients
- 25g cornflour
- 250g plain flour
Wet Ingredients
- 100g unsalted butter, softened
- 100g caster sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 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