Basic Plain Sugar Cookies Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)

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A classic for a reason. These picture perfect sugar cookies are ready in no time, simple enough to bake with kids, and made with ingredients you'll already have on hand.

serves/makes:

ready in:

under 30 minutes

6 reviews

ingredients

1 1/4 cup butter, at room temperature
2 cups sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 3/4 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup additional sugar, for coating

directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy.

With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides as needed. Add the vanilla.

In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add to the sugar mixture, mixing until just blended.

Scoop out walnut-sized balls of dough and roll into a ball. Roll each cookie ball in additional sugar.

recipe tips

Make sure your butter is at the right temperature (soft but not melted) so the ingredients mix easily and the cookies have the right texture.

For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to measure out the dough.

Flattening the cookies slightly before baking helps them spread evenly.

Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack can prevent them from breaking.

Try different types of sugar (such as coarse sugar or colored sugar) for rolling to add a festive look to your cookies.

common recipe questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used, but butter provides a richer flavor and better texture to the cookies.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Check the blend for xanthan gum; if it's not included, you may need to add it according to the flour blend's recommendations for cookies.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?

You can add citrus zest, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix-ins such as chocolate chips or nuts to customize your cookies.

Why do I need to roll the cookies in sugar before baking?

Rolling the cookies in sugar before baking gives them a sparkle and a slight crunch on the outside, adding to their sweetness and texture.

Can I chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can make it easier to handle and may help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.

How do I store the baked cookies?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I use this dough for cut-out sugar cookies?

This dough is a bit soft for rolling and cutting. For cut-out cookies, you might want to reduce the butter slightly or add a bit more flour to make a stiffer dough.

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?

If cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly softened butter or a warm dough. Make sure the butter is at room temperature but not melted, and consider chilling the dough if your kitchen is warm. Make sure the baking sheets are cool before putting the cookies on them.

Can I decorate these cookies with icing?

Yes, once the cookies have completely cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or other decorations as desired.

nutrition data

173 calories, 8 grams fat, 24 grams carbohydrates, 2 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium.

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reviews & comments

anne REVIEW:
July 3, 2018

These were absolutely delicious! Had them with my coffee. Husband loved them, as well. Will be making these for family party for tomorrow. Thank you for this quick and easy, easy recipe.
Guest Foodie REVIEW:
May 14, 2015

Its good!
Shanny REVIEW:
October 6, 2011

PERFECT! So delicious! Thank you!
Will REVIEW:
September 25, 2010

I can confirm that this works. Made very "fluffy" and soft cookies. Mine took more like 12 minutes to bake up.
Cooker Dad REVIEW:
April 24, 2008

Too Much Sugar!! Way too sweet; i think the 2 cups should be reduced!! Might be a mistake.
jenn REVIEW:
September 2, 2007

These sugar cookies taste great and are easy to make; they have become my family's favorite cookie... I make them more like drop cookies instead of rolled, then just sprinkle the extra sugar on top.

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