Creating delicious homemade sugar cookies is a delightful way to fill your home with warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, these sugar cookies from scratch are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon.
**Delicious Sugar Cookie From Scratch**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be easily done using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. The egg provides structure to the cookies, while the vanilla adds a lovely fragrance.
5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Chill the Dough:** Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps solidify the butter, making it easier to work with and ensuring the cookies hold their shape while baking.
7. **Roll and Shape:** Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes, re-rolling any scraps to make more cookies.
8. **Bake:** Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown.
9. **Cool and Enjoy:** Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, these sugar cookies are ready to be enjoyed on their own or decorated with icing and sprinkles for a festive touch.
These homemade sugar cookies are a wonderful way to add a touch of sweetness to your day and share the joy of baking with those you love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are simple yet satisfying, making them a classic go-to treat for any occasion. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful cookies from scratch and savor the delicious results that come out of your oven.
