Description
These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, making them an all-time favorite treat for any occasion. With a simple recipe featuring vanilla and a hint of almond extract, they’re easy to prepare and beautifully versatile for decorating or enjoying plain.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a light and fluffy base for the cookies.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Incorporate the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together and no large flour pockets remain; avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a flat disk, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up the dough for easier rolling and better texture.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Roll and Cut Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut your desired shapes, then transfer the cookies carefully onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack completely before serving or decorating.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading and achieve a nice texture.
- If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, you can increase almond extract slightly but be cautious—it’s quite potent.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can decorate the cookies with icing or sprinkles once fully cooled for festive occasions.
- Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet.
