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The Best Sugar Cookies

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Soft, buttery sugar cookies with crisp edges and tender centers—perfect for decorating or enjoying plain. This versatile, reliable recipe holds its shape well and stays fresh for days.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and mix until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Divide the dough into two portions, roll each to ¼ inch thickness between parchment paper, and chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 11–12 minutes, or until edges are just beginning to turn golden.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Decorate with icing or enjoy plain as desired.

Notes

  • Do not skip chilling the dough—it helps cookies keep their shape.
  • Swap ¼ cup flour for cocoa powder for chocolate sugar cookies.
  • Add zest or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor variations.
  • Cookies freeze well, both baked and unbaked (cut-out).
  • Use royal icing for detailed decorating; buttercream for a softer look.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/the-best-sugar-cookies/