Perfect Sugar Cookies

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Crisp edges, soft centers, and a buttery vanilla flavor that melts in your mouth—these Perfect Sugar Cookies are everything a classic cookie should be. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, special occasion, or just want to fill your kitchen with that cozy, sweet aroma, this recipe delivers picture-perfect results every time.

Decorated with a smooth royal icing or a simple dusting of sanding sugar, these cookies hold their shape beautifully when baked, making them ideal for using all your favorite cookie cutters. From heart shapes for Valentine’s to stars for the holidays, they are as versatile as they are delicious.

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Why You’ll Love These Perfect Sugar Cookies

These cookies are a timeless crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, freeze wonderfully, and are perfect for decorating. Whether you like them soft and chewy or slightly crisp, you can tweak the baking time to suit your preference. Plus, they’re perfect for baking with kids and sharing with loved ones.

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What Kind of Icing Works Best for Sugar Cookies?

For clean edges and glossy finishes, royal icing is a baker’s best friend. It dries hard, allowing you to stack and package cookies with ease. For a simpler touch, a buttercream frosting works well for adding flavor, while sanding sugars and sprinkles give a quick festive feel. For a glossy, elegant look, try a glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.

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Ingredients for the Perfect Sugar Cookies

Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving the ideal texture and taste:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides a rich, creamy base. Room temperature butter ensures easy mixing and smooth dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps with structure.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Infuses the dough with deep, fragrant flavor. Use pure vanilla for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of the cookies. Too much can make the dough crumbly, so measure carefully.
• Baking Powder: Gives a gentle rise, ensuring the cookies aren’t too flat.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.

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How To Make the Perfect Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a tender cookie base.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. This adds flavor and helps the dough bind.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture and mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and cut.

Step 5: Roll and Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼-inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape.

Step 6: Bake

Place cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden.

Step 7: Decorate

Once cool, decorate with royal icing, buttercream, or sprinkles. Let set before stacking or storing.

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How to Serve and Store Sugar Cookies

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, depending on cutter size. Serve them fresh with coffee, tea, or milk for a nostalgic treat.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze baked cookies (undecorated or decorated) for up to 3 months.

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What to Serve With Sugar Cookies?

Hot Cocoa

Pair your cookies with a cozy cup of homemade hot cocoa for a comforting winter treat.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Make a sugar cookie ice cream sandwich by layering between scoops of vanilla or birthday cake ice cream.

Fresh Berries

Add a touch of freshness with raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries on the side.

Fruit Dip

Serve cookies alongside a creamy fruit dip for an unexpected twist.

Coffee or Espresso

Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or dessert pairing.

Milkshakes

Blend your favorite ice cream flavor and enjoy it with a sugar cookie straw.

Cheesecake Mousse

Use cookie crumbles as a topping for a light, fluffy mousse.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving these Perfect Sugar Cookies, you won’t want to miss these fun variations:

• Whipped Shortbread Cookies for melt-in-your-mouth buttery bliss.
• Banana Bread Cookies with soft, cake-like centers.
• Mini Pecan Tarts for a nutty, caramelized finish.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake if you love fruity richness.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups for a tangy twist on cookie cups.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add lemon zest or try a chocolate dip? Did you go all-in with rainbow sprinkles?

I love seeing how you make these cookies your own. Ask away if you have questions—let’s make every batch better than the last.

Explore beautifully curated dessert and baking creations on Nora Nosh Recipes and find your next baking obsession!

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