There's nothing like the sweet, buttery aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies filling the kitchen. These easy sugar cookies are soft in the middle with perfectly crisp edges, making them an absolute favorite for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe is a breeze to make with simple pantry staples.

I first made these sugar cookies on a whim, hoping for a treat that would pair well with a cup of tea. Now, they've become a go-to recipe that my family requests all year round. Let’s dive into what makes this sugar cookie recipe so special!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

These sugar cookies have quickly become a household staple for so many reasons. They're deliciously simple yet full of flavor, perfect for all skill levels and a breeze to customize.

First and foremost, they’re incredibly easy to make. No need for fancy equipment or a long list of ingredients—just mix, scoop, and bake! In less than 30 minutes, you can have warm cookies ready to enjoy.

Another bonus? These cookies are endlessly versatile. You can bake them as plain circles, roll them in sprinkles, or add a dash of cinnamon for a warm twist. They’re a blank canvas for any flavors or decorations you want to try.

And if you’re planning to bake with kids, this recipe is an excellent choice. The dough is simple to handle, and kids love rolling the cookies in sugar or sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.

Finally, they store beautifully. You can make a big batch and keep extras for days (if they last that long!)—perfect for busy weeks or when you need a quick treat on hand.

Ready to make some delicious sugar cookies? Let’s start with the ingredients you’ll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these sugar cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that soft, buttery texture and subtle sweetness.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cookies, this type of flour keeps the cookies soft yet sturdy. Be sure to measure accurately for the best texture.
Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for the best results. The butter brings that classic richness to the cookies and helps create those perfectly crisp edges.
Granulated Sugar: The sweetness of the cookies comes from simple granulated sugar, which also gives the cookies their crisp, slightly crunchy exterior when rolled before baking.
Egg: Just one large egg is enough to bind the dough together and add a touch of softness.
Vanilla Extract: This adds depth of flavor. For an extra-special batch, try using pure vanilla extract or even a dash of almond extract for a nutty twist.
Baking Powder: This helps the cookies rise slightly, creating a light and soft texture without making the cookies too puffy.

If you have a cookie scoop on hand, it can make portioning the dough much easier. Otherwise, a tablespoon measure works perfectly!

How To Make This Easy Sugar Cookie Recipe

Making these sugar cookies couldn’t be simpler. Follow these steps for perfect cookies every time.

Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for creating a light and airy cookie, so don’t rush it!
Add the Egg and Vanilla: Once the butter and sugar mixture is creamy, add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
Mix in the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cookies tough.
Shape and Roll the Cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough, roll them between your hands, and then roll each ball in additional granulated sugar for a sweet, sparkly finish. Place each ball on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between cookies.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. They’ll still be soft in the middle, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of irresistibly soft and flavorful sugar cookies ready to enjoy. Make sure to let them cool completely if you plan to decorate them!

Storage Options

These sugar cookies are perfect for making ahead or keeping around for a few days.

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and chewy if kept in a cool, dry place.
Freezing the Dough: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw for a few minutes and bake as usual.
Freezing Baked Cookies: These cookies also freeze well after baking! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in a low oven.

To reheat, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds. It will be just as soft and warm as if it were fresh from the oven.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this sugar cookie recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are some fun twists to try:

Add Citrus Zest: A teaspoon of lemon, lime, or orange zest added to the dough will add a refreshing, tangy flavor.
Sprinkles and Colors: Get creative with colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive look. This is perfect for holidays or themed events.
Almond or Peppermint Extract: Swap out half of the vanilla extract for almond or peppermint extract for a different flavor profile.
Frosted Sugar Cookies: Let the cookies cool completely, then spread a thin layer of icing or drizzle melted chocolate over them for an extra indulgent treat.
Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Roll the dough balls in a cinnamon-sugar mixture instead of plain sugar for a snickerdoodle-inspired twist.

Feel free to experiment! These cookies are a fantastic base for all kinds of flavors and decorations.

With their buttery flavor, soft texture, and endless versatility, these easy sugar cookies are sure to be a hit every time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy every bite!