Are you a beginner in the world of baking? Or maybe you’re just looking for some new and exciting ways to make classic sugar cookies. Either way, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 quick and easy sugar cookie recipes that are perfect for anyone who loves baking.
From classic vanilla flavors to more unique combinations like lemon glaze and cinnamon, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all super simple and require minimal ingredients, so you can get started right away. So grab your mixing bowls and preheat those ovens – we’re about to dive into the world of sugar cookies!
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies Recipe
These chewy and sweet cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for snacking or decorating with friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying warm-from-the-oven treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
This classic recipe yields a batch of soft and chewy sugar cookies that are perfect for snacking, sharing, or decorating. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies: A Bright Twist on a Classic Treat
Sweet and tangy, these lemon glazed sugar cookies are the perfect treat to brighten up your day. With a simple glaze made from freshly squeezed lemon juice and powdered sugar, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Sugar Cookies with Icing
These chewy sugar cookies infused with almond flavor are a perfect treat for any occasion. With a simple icing recipe, you’ll be able to customize the sweetness and color to your liking.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp almond extract
– Colored icing (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before glazing with your favorite colored icing (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
Sweet and nutty brown butter sugar cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe yields soft, chewy cookies with a deep caramel flavor from the toasted butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and whisk in white granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined. Let cool slightly.
4. Whisk in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Sugar Cookies
Elevate your snack game with these chewy sugar cookies dipped in rich chocolate. Perfect for a quick dessert or a special treat, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate and place on parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Funfetti Sugar Cookies
Add a pop of color and fun to your baking with these vibrant Funfetti Sugar Cookies. Perfect for birthdays, parties, or just a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Sugar Cookies
These soft-baked sugar cookies get a sweet and sticky makeover with a rich maple glaze, perfect for any occasion. With just the right amount of crunch and chew, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Maple glaze (see below)
– Colored sprinkles or chopped pecans for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Combine ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles or chopped pecans, if desired.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and sweetness of sugar, perfect for a cozy treat or gift-giving. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
7. Roll each ball in cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between cookies.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy peanut butter sugar cookies are a classic favorite, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the addition of creamy peanut butter, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped peanuts for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well mixed.
5. Gradually add flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warm spices of eggnog, making them a perfect treat for your holiday gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that’s sure to please even the pickiest palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggnog, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these soft, chewy, and deeply flavored Red Velvet Sugar Cookies!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp red food coloring
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add red food coloring and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Warm up your fall with these soft, chewy, and flavorful pumpkin spice sugar cookies. Perfect for snacking or sharing, they’re a delicious addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sugar Cookie Bars with Frosting
These chewy sugar cookie bars are a twist on the classic favorite, topped with a creamy frosting that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for parties or just a quick dessert fix!
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Press dough into prepared pan. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow to cool completely before frosting with confectioners’ sugar and softened butter mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Mini Sugar Cookie Dough Bites
A sweet treat that’s perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these bite-sized cookie dough balls are easy to make and irresistible to eat. With a classic sugar cookie flavor and a soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the cookie dough bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are best enjoyed straight from the fridge.
Orange Zest Sugar Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these citrusy treats that combine the sweetness of sugar cookies with the brightness of orange zest. Perfect for a afternoon pick-me-up or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg until smooth. Gradually add flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Gingerbread Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies infused with the warmth of gingerbread spices are perfect for the holiday season. Enjoy them as a sweet treat or package them up as gifts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on wire rack before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thumbprint Sugar Cookies with Jam
A sweet and simple treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These classic sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with a dollop of your favorite jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Your favorite jam or preserves (about 1-2 tbsp per cookie)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Spoon about 1-2 tbsp of jam into each indentation.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to bake your way into sugar cookie heaven! This collection of 18 quick and easy recipes is perfect for beginners. From classic vanilla to decadent chocolate-dipped, there’s a flavor combination to suit every taste. Try soft and chewy cookies, or add a burst of citrus with lemon glazed or orange zest. For a sweet twist, try adding peanut butter, maple glaze, or pumpkin spice. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or just starting out, these simple sugar cookie recipes will have you hooked from the first bite.