One of my all-time favorite cookies to bake is the classic Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookie. There's something so comforting about their simplicity—the buttery dough, the hint of vanilla, and the soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making these cookies for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe never disappoints. I love making a batch to share with friends and family, or simply enjoying them fresh out of the oven with a warm cup of coffee.
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are the perfect balance of sweetness and softness. The combination of butter, vanilla, and a touch of milk creates an irresistible cookie with a delicate, chewy center and slightly crispy edges. Rolling them in extra sugar before baking gives them a lovely sparkle and a slight crunch. Plus, they’re super easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Recipe: Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher cookie.
Step 3: Roll in Sugar
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to coat the outside. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and just starting to turn golden. The centers should still be soft. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve these soft and chewy sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a perfect snack. They’re also great for holiday cookie swaps or as a simple dessert after dinner.
Storage:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the dough balls before baking, and simply bake as needed.
Helpful Notes
- Chilling the Dough: For even softer cookies, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and baking. This helps control the spread of the cookies.
- Rolling in Sugar: Rolling the dough in sugar before baking gives the cookies a slightly crisp outer layer while keeping the inside soft and chewy.
- Flavor Variations: Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the dough for a flavor twist.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll the dough into balls, coat in sugar, and bake as directed.
Q2: Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, these sugar cookies freeze well. You can freeze the baked cookies or freeze the unbaked dough balls. Just thaw them before baking or enjoying.
Q3: Can I add sprinkles to the dough?
Absolutely! You can mix sprinkles into the dough for a festive touch, or press them onto the tops of the cookies before baking.
Q4: What if I don’t have unsalted butter?
If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to just a pinch.
Q5: Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Yes! You can mix the dough by hand with a whisk and spoon, just be sure to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a classic, no-fuss treat that will satisfy any cookie craving. Their tender texture and simple, sweet flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday celebration or a quiet afternoon snack. I hope this recipe becomes a go-to in your kitchen just like it is in mine. Happy baking!
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, beating until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tougher cookie.
Step 3: Roll in Sugar
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to coat the outside. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and just starting to turn golden. The centers should still be soft. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a festive touch, roll the dough balls in colored sugar sprinkles.
- Don’t overbake; the cookies should be soft in the center when taken out of the oven.
