Soft Sugar Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe for Irresistible Treats

Soft sugar cookies are a delightful treat that brings a smile to anyone’s face. These cookies, with their tender texture and sweet flavor, have a rich history that dates back to the early 1700s when they were first introduced in the United States by German settlers. Over the years, soft sugar cookies have become a beloved staple in many households, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings.

What I love most about soft sugar cookies is their versatility; they can be dressed up with colorful icing or enjoyed plain, making them perfect for any occasion. The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the sweet, buttery taste creates a comforting experience that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, soft sugar cookies are always a hit. Join me as we explore this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Preparing the Dough

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly soft. 2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour, ensuring a consistent rise in your cookies. 3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The air incorporated during this process will help your cookies achieve that soft texture. 4. **Add Egg and Extracts**: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly. 5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. 6. **Chill the Dough**: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to solidify the butter, which will prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Shaping the Cookies

7. **Prepare the Baking Sheet**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. 8. **Roll the Dough**: Once the dough is chilled, scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Then, roll the ball in the granulated sugar until it’s fully coated. This will give your cookies a lovely sweet crust. 9. **Place on Baking Sheet**: Arrange the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread while baking, so give them some room to grow.

Baking the Cookies

10. **Bake**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. 11. **Cool on Baking Sheet**: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important as it helps them set and makes them easier to move without breaking.

Making the Icing (Optional)

12. **Prepare the Icing**: If you want to add a sweet touch to your cookies, you can make a simple icing. In a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for a thicker icing. 13. **Decorate the Cookies**: Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the icing over the top. You can also add sprinkles or colored sugar for a festive touch.

Storing the Cookies

14. **Store Properly**: To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but I bet they won’t last that long! 15. **Freezing for Later**: If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can freeze the cookie dough. Just scoop the dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Enjoy your soft sugar cookies with a glass of milk

Conclusion:

In summary, these soft sugar cookies are an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a sweet treat that melts in your mouth. Their delightful texture and subtle sweetness make them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a holiday, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home. You can easily customize these cookies by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even a hint of lemon zest for a refreshing twist. I encourage you to give this soft sugar cookie recipe a go! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve baked a batch, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you try any fun variations? How did they turn out? Sharing your baking adventures not only inspires others but also creates a wonderful sense of community among fellow cookie lovers. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s get baking! You’ll soon discover why these soft sugar cookies are destined to become a favorite in your home.

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