Classic Sugar Cookies: Quick and Easy Homemade Treats Anyone Can Bake

Easy Sugar Cookies

This sugar cookie recipe uses easy ingredients you probably already have on hand for soft and chewy cookies that are sure to satisfy a sweet tooth.

If you’re craving classic cookies that melt in your mouth and deliver that perfect balance of buttery sweetness, you’re in the right place.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 48 servings

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

From holiday gatherings to after-school snacks, these homemade sugar cookies bring joy to every occasion. With a simple dough that’s easy to work with, you can cut them into fun shapes, sprinkle on colored sugar, or top with festive icing. The result? Soft, chewy cookies with just the right amount of sweet crunch around the edges.

Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Cookies

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions to Bake the Best Sugar Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
6. Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Optional: Press the tops with a glass dipped in sugar for extra sparkle.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the centers are set.
9. Let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations for Perfect Cookies

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling.
• Flavor Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a bit of lemon zest for a unique taste.
• Decorate: Top with colored sugar, sprinkles, or royal icing for holidays and celebrations.
• Storage: Keep cookies fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

These cookies have quickly become a family favorite—simple to make, endlessly customizable, and impossible to resist. Happy baking and enjoy your cookies!