Easy Soft Sugar Cookies: A Classic Homemade Treat in 30 Minutes

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Using a mixer, cream butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
5. Divide dough in half. Shape each portion into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 15 minutes.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes.
8. Place cookies 1 inch apart, sprinkle with colored sugar if desired, and bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are set.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.