There’s nothing more classic or comforting than a batch of simple sugar cookies. Soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, these Easy Sugar Cookies are the definition of a no-fuss recipe. With just three main ingredients, plus a little vanilla for depth, these cookies come together in minutes and bake up with a delicate crisp edge and a tender center.
If you’re just starting out with baking or want to introduce young kids to the joy of creating homemade treats, this is the recipe for you. No complicated steps, no fancy techniques, just a straightforward, delicious cookie that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Sugar Cookies
- Only 3 core ingredients
- Quick to make with simple pantry staples
- Soft and buttery with a crisp edge
- Perfect for decorating with sprinkles
- Ideal for beginner bakers or baking with kids
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar + 3 tablespoons for rolling
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils for topping (optional)
How to Make Easy Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 2/3 cup of sugar with a handheld electric mixer until combined. It may look a bit gritty, but that’s fine.
- Add the flour to the butter mixture and blend until a dough begins to form.
- If using, blend in the vanilla extract for a hint of extra flavor.
- Pinch a bit of dough and press it between your fingers. It should come together easily and feel smooth and buttery. If it seems crumbly, continue kneading gently until it holds together.
Step 3: Shape and Coat
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out 1-inch sized dough balls.
- Roll each ball between your palms until soft and smooth.
- Gently roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar to coat the outside.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Flatten and Decorate
- Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press down gently on each dough ball to flatten it.
- If desired, sprinkle with rainbow nonpareils or other sprinkles, then lightly press down again so they stick to the dough.
- The dough should be between 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick (roughly 3/16 inch).
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges and bottoms are just slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for at least 10–15 minutes before moving to a cooling rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
Tips for Success
- Always measure the flour properly by spooning and leveling for the best texture.
- Allow the butter to fully soften at room temperature so it creams smoothly.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps the cookies hold together.
- For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop for even portioning.
Variations
- Swap rainbow sprinkles for seasonal sprinkles to match a holiday theme
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract for a deeper flavor
- Stir in mini chocolate chips for a fun twist
- Use sanding sugar for a subtle sparkle on top
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months in a sealed bag or container. Defrost at room temperature.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the dough balls ahead and freeze them unbaked. Thaw, roll in sugar, and bake when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend, though the texture may change slightly.
Do these cookies spread much?
They will spread a little when pressed down and baked, but not dramatically.
Why do I need to let them rest after baking?
Allowing them to rest helps them firm up and prevents crumbling.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the extra pinch of salt if you use salted butter.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat
- Pair with tea or coffee for a sweet afternoon break
- Stack and wrap in cellophane for a thoughtful homemade gift
- Set out with other cookies for a fun holiday dessert tray
Share Your Baking Story
If you make these Easy Sugar Cookies, I would love to hear how they turned out. Leave a comment or share your photos to inspire other bakers and cookie lovers.
Easy Sugar Cookies
These Easy Sugar Cookies use just 3 ingredients for a soft, buttery treat. Quick, kid-friendly, and perfect for any season.
Servings 10
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar + 3 tablespoons for rolling
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, but recommended
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils for topping optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 2/3 cup of sugar with a handheld electric mixer until combined. It may look a bit gritty, but that’s fine.
- Add the flour to the butter mixture and blend until a dough begins to form.
- If using, blend in the vanilla extract for a hint of extra flavor.
- Pinch a bit of dough and press it between your fingers. It should come together easily and feel smooth and buttery. If it seems crumbly, continue kneading gently until it holds together.
Step 3: Shape and Coat
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out 1-inch sized dough balls.
- Roll each ball between your palms until soft and smooth.
- Gently roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar to coat the outside.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Flatten and Decorate
- Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press down gently on each dough ball to flatten it.
- If desired, sprinkle with rainbow nonpareils or other sprinkles, then lightly press down again so they stick to the dough.
- The dough should be between 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick (roughly 3/16 inch).
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 14 to 16 minutes, or until the edges and bottoms are just slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for at least 10–15 minutes before moving to a cooling rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
Leave a Comment