Kickstart your baking adventure with this incredibly easy sugar cookie recipe that requires just three ingredients. Perfect for last-minute treats or when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
- Minimal ingredients mean less prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- The simplicity of the recipe allows the buttery, sweet flavors to shine through.
- No chilling required, so you can go from mixing to baking in no time.
- Versatile dough that can be customized with colors, flavors, or toppings.
- Perfect for beginners or those teaching kids to bake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Cookie cutters (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. Tip: If you don’t have parchment paper, a light greasing of the pan will do.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2 minutes with an electric mixer. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky. Tip: If the dough is too crumbly, add a tablespoon of water.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers. For uniform cookies, use a cookie cutter. Tip: For extra sparkle, roll the dough balls in sugar before flattening.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. The centers should still be soft. Remember, cookies continue to cook on the baking sheet after removed from the oven.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking. Enjoy your simple, delicious sugar cookies!
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their sugar cookies, consider these advanced tips. First, brown your butter before adding it to the recipe for a deeper, nuttier flavor. Second, incorporate vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra flavor dimension. Third, use a cookie stamp to imprint designs before baking for a professional touch. Lastly, let your creativity shine by decorating cooled cookies with icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter.
Recipe Variations
- Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in a half cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture.
- Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal variation.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce any additional salt in the recipe. Since this recipe doesn’t call for extra salt, it should be fine as is, but taste preferences vary.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies or the dough for up to 3 months.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
Summary
This easy sugar cookie recipe with just three ingredients is a game-changer for quick, delicious treats. Simple, versatile, and perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a go-to in your baking repertoire.