Classic Sugar Cookies Recipe
These Classic Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet with crisp edges and tender centers. Whether you're baking for the holidays, decorating cookies with the family, or simply craving a homemade treat, this easy sugar cookie recipe delivers bakery-quality results every time.
They're delicious plain, topped with frosting, or decorated with colorful sprinkles for any occasion.
The Origins of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies trace their roots back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania, where German settlers developed a simple buttery cookie known as the Nazareth Sugar Cookie. Over time, sugar cookies became one of America's most beloved desserts thanks to their versatility, simple ingredients, and ability to be decorated for holidays and celebrations.
Today, sugar cookies remain a staple for Christmas cookie exchanges, birthdays, Valentine's Day, Easter, and countless family traditions.
Why You'll Love These Sugar Cookies
Soft and buttery texture
Easy pantry ingredients
Perfect for decorating
Great for holidays and special occasions
Freezer-friendly dough
Ingredients
For the Cookies
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk
Optional Toppings
Colored sugar
Sprinkles
Royal icing
Buttercream frosting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Set aside.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and milk.
Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
This helps prevent spreading and improves flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll dough into 1½-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets.
Gently flatten each cookie.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorating Ideas
Classic vanilla buttercream
Royal icing designs
Holiday sprinkles
Pink frosting and edible glitter
Chocolate drizzle
What to Serve with Sugar Cookies
Hot Chocolate
Coffee
Tea
Vanilla Milkshakes
Strawberry Milk
Homemade Lemonade
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Freeze dough for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my sugar cookies hard?
Overbaking is the most common cause. Remove them when the centers still look slightly soft.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. Refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking.
Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What's the best frosting for sugar cookies?
Buttercream and royal icing are the most popular options.
More Cookie Recipes You'll Love
Soft Sugar Cookies
Lofthouse Sugar Cookies
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Cookies
Snickerdoodles
Christmas Sugar Cookies
Lemon Sugar Cookies
Strawberry Sugar Cookies
Red Velvet Cookies
Birthday Cake Cookies
Final Thoughts
These Classic Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. Whether you're decorating them for the holidays or enjoying them fresh from the oven, they're a timeless recipe every baker should have in their collection.