Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a beloved classic that never fails to evoke warm memories and sweet smiles. These delightful treats strike a perfect balance between a crisp exterior and a soft, chewy center, making them irresistible for any cookie lover. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these cookies bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort that’s hard to beat.
Why you’ll love this dish
Baking Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies comes with a plethora of benefits that make them a must-try. They are not only quick to whip up but also budget-friendly, requiring just a handful of common pantry ingredients. These cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it a weeknight dessert, a festive holiday treat, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet. Their chewy texture and sweet, buttery flavor are kid-approved, making them a delightful choice for family gatherings or school lunches.
“These sugar cookies are a game changer! They’re perfectly soft and chewy every single time—great for parties, or even just for snacking at home!” – A satisfied cookie lover.
The cooking process explained
Making Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies is simpler than you might think! This recipe can be broken down into a few straightforward steps. First, you’ll create a creamy butter and sugar base, then blend in key wet ingredients before incorporating a delicate flour mixture. The real key to achieving that coveted chewy texture lies in the gentle mixing and a brief chilling period for the dough. Let’s walk through the ingredients you’ll need.
Gather these items
To create these delectable cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Feel free to swap out the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free version!
Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aerates the batter and sets the stage for the ideal soft texture.
- Thoroughly mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined, as this brings together the flavors that make these cookies special.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents in your cookie dough.
- Gradually add the flour mixture into the creamy butter and sugar batter, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep it light and airy!
- Wrap your cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This not only allows the flavors to meld beautifully but also helps to prevent spreading during baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop the chilled dough into balls, and if desired, roll them lightly in sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are delectable on their own, but don’t hesitate to get creative! Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a glass of chilled milk—there’s something nostalgic about that pairing. For a fun twist, try sandwiching two cookies with your favorite frosting or ice cream. You could even serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing summer treat.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your cookies, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, although I doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are completely cool before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer—perfect for cookie cravings later on!
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t skip the chilling: Refrigerating the dough helps improve the cookie’s texture by preventing them from spreading too much in the oven.
- Use room temperature butter: This ensures it blends smoothly with the sugars, creating that fluffy base.
- Avoid overmixing: Gently combine to keep the cookies tender.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider throwing in some chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles for added flavor and crunch.
Creative twists
There are countless ways to put a spin on this classic recipe! Try adding a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty kick or rolling the cookies in colored sugar before baking to make them festive. You can also incorporate different mix-ins; white chocolate chips or dried cranberries can give a delightful twist to the traditional flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and bake these cookies?
Preparing the dough takes about 15 minutes, plus a 30-minute chill time. Baking usually takes about 8–10 minutes.
Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free option?
Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute to make these cookies dairy-free.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Are these cookies suitable for special diets?
These cookies can be adjusted for various dietary needs. For instance, use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free cookie, or replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
Now that you know how to make Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies, why not gather your ingredients and indulge in a bit of baking magic today? They’re sure to become a beloved staple in your home!
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature can be substituted with a dairy-free alternative
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour can be substituted for gluten-free flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Beat the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Thoroughly mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the flour mixture into the creamy butter and sugar batter, stirring gently until just combined.
- Wrap your cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Scoop the chilled dough into balls and roll them lightly in sugar if desired.
- Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
