I still remember the first time I attempted sugar cookies. It was Christmastime, and my kids were begging for those perfectly decorated cookies they saw in every store window. I thought, “How hard could it be?” Famous last words, right? Let’s just say, my first batch was a far cry from picture-perfect. But the kids didn’t care! They loved the process of decorating them, even if the icing was a little… abstract. These Sugar Cookies have become a tradition!

That initial Sugar Cookies experience taught me a lot about what really matters – family, fun, and forgiving yourself when things don’t go exactly as planned. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe, simplified the steps, and discovered a few sanity-saving comfort hacks that I’m excited to share with you today. And if you have picky eaters don’t worry, you can even get them to enjoy baking Sugar Cookies with you. Baking Sugar Cookies is the perfect way to spend family time together.

If you’re a busy mom looking for a simple way to bring some comfort and joy into your home, you’re in the right place. This Cookie Recipe is all about creating memories and delicious treats without the overwhelm. Join me in the kitchen, and let’s make some magic happen!

INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

This Cookie Recipe is simple. These Sugar Cookies don’t need a lot of different ingredients. Here’s everything you need:

3 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our Sugar Cookies.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the cookies rise and gives them a light, airy texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: This adds a bit of tenderness to the cookies.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s softened, not melted! This is crucial for achieving the right texture.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: The star of the show, adding sweetness and that classic Sugar Cookies flavor.
2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and add richness.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, comforting flavor. I love using pure vanilla extract for the best taste!
Icing: Store bought or your favourite Icing Recipe

Here’s a comfort hack: if you’re out of vanilla extract, a teaspoon of almond extract can add a lovely, subtle flavor to your Sugar Cookies. No worries if you’re short on time – I’ve used store-bought cookie dough in a pinch, and the kids still love decorating them.

You can find all of these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. This Sugar Cookies recipe proves that delicious doesn’t mean expensive. This is a wonderful Cookie Recipe that will surely become a staple in your family. While you are shopping grab the ingredients for Sugared Cranberries, they are amazing!

Trust me, this ingredient list is simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity!

Raw ingredients for sugar cookies, including flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, arranged on a marble surface.

Let’s Make it Happen!

Let’s get started on these Sugar Cookies!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oven ready is always the first step. I love to do this while the kids are getting their homework done.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. This Cookie Recipe is great because the steps are super simple.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this step. This comforting Sugar Cookies stage is so fun!
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.Here’s where I used to struggle with my Sugar Cookies – learn from my experience!
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. In my busy kitchen, this comforting Sugar Cookies usually takes about 10-12 minutes in the oven.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. This is where the fun really begins! Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
Place the cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Don’t worry if your Sugar Cookies looks a little soft – they’ll firm up as they cool.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Your Sugar Cookies should smell amazing by now! Take a moment to appreciate creating comfort for your family!
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time to decorate!. Frost with your favorite icing and add sprinkles, if desired. This is where the kids can really get creative! This baking Cookie Recipe is meant to be fun and bring joy!

Baking Christmas Cookies should be a fun and relaxing activity. Take some time for yourself after you bake them!

How We Love to Eat This!

My kids devour this comforting Sugar Cookies when I serve them with a glass of cold milk. This Cookie Recipe is perfect for those cozy nights in. We also love making hot chocolate to go with our baking Sugar Cookies.

These Sugar Cookies are perfect for those busy weeknights when we need comfort food fast! We also make them for Holiday events. We use different cutters for different occasions. These Christmas Cookies are a must-have for Holiday Baking in my house!

For a fun presentation, I like to arrange the decorated Sugar Cookies on a festive platter. And don’t worry about leftovers! These Sugar Cookies keep well in an airtight container for several days. Why not try serving them with these Halloween Crinkle Cookies (https://mommiesmore.com/halloween-crinkle-cookies)?

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some questions I often get asked about this Cookie Recipe:

Is this sugar cookies recipe really filling enough for growing kids?

Yes! While these Sugar Cookies are a treat, they can be part of a balanced snack or dessert. It’s all about moderation and pairing them with other nutritious foods.

What if my picky eater won’t try these Sugar Cookies?

Get them involved in the baking and decorating process! Kids are often more willing to try something they helped create. Let them choose the cookie cutters and sprinkles.

Can I meal prep these sugar cookies for busy weeks ahead?

Absolutely! You can bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Then, when you’re ready to serve, simply frost and decorate.

Can I freeze the sugar cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight.

Can I use a different type of flour?

While all-purpose flour works best for this recipe, you can try using a gluten-free blend if needed. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package.

What if my sugar cookies spread too much while baking?

This can happen if your butter is too soft or if you overmix the dough. Make sure your butter is softened but still cool, and mix the dough until just combined.

Can I add different extracts to the dough?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like almond, lemon, or peppermint to create unique flavor combinations. My family gets extra comfort when I add almond extract to these Sugar Cookies.

Final Thoughts:

These Sugar Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a way to create memories and share love with your family. Baking is a wonderful way to bond and create those memories. These Sugar Cookies are a great way to get the family together.

Here are my Sugar Cookies Comfort Hacks:

Use store-bought icing to save time.
Let the kids choose their own sprinkles and decorations.
Don’t stress about perfection – the fun is in the process!

Here are a few family-tested Sugar Cookies variations:

Chocolate Sugar Cookies: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough.
Spice Sugar Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

My son loves the chocolate version, while my daughter prefers the classic Sugar Cookies with lots of sprinkles. I encourage you to make this recipe your own and create a version that your family will love. I hope these Christmas Cookies become a family tradition for you too! If you need more great holiday baking ideas, check out Holiday Baking: Cardamom Sugar Cookies – West of the Loop.

For more simple comfort food ideas for busy families, check out these Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies. If your kids enjoy baking these sugar cookies you can show them these Christmas Cookie Baking and Decorating tips on this facebook group

I hope this Cookie Recipe brings your family as much joy as it brings mine. You can find additional baking tips at Zoë’s Baking Academy: Holiday Sugar Cookies, it is a great resource! And remember if you need a good laugh these Sugar Cookies remind me of another family favorite…

So go ahead, give this **Sugar Cookies** recipe a try. Your family will thank you for it! And remember, it’s all about creating simple comfort and connection, one cookie at a time. 💕

Sugar Cookies

Print Recipe

These classic sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion! Soft, chewy, and lightly sweet, they’re easy to make and even easier to decorate.

Author: Beatriz
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate as desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of almond extract to the dough. These cookies are delicious with frosting, sprinkles, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.