Looking to master the art of baking classic sugar cookies that are tender, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet? Look no further than this easy-to-follow basic sugar cookie recipe that will be a hit with all your family and friends. Perfect for any occasion, these delectable treats are a must-have in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into making these delightful cookies that are sure to become a household favorite.
**Basic Sugar Cookie Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) until firm.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
9. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, you can decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them as they are!
These simple sugar cookies are a blank canvas for your creativity. You can customize them with colorful frosting, edible glitter, or your favorite sprinkles to make them even more festive for holidays or special occasions. They also make a wonderful homemade gift when neatly packaged in a clear bag or decorative tin.
Baking these classic sugar cookies is a fun and rewarding activity that will fill your home with the delicious aroma of freshly baked treats. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a foolproof way to achieve perfectly soft and flavorful sugar cookies every time. So roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and get ready to impress everyone with your baking skills. Enjoy!
