Perfect Sugar Cookies

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

These Perfect Sugar Cookies are my go-to for any celebration, but especially around Valentine’s Day. There’s something special about cutting out hearts, stars, or snowflakes and decorating them with vibrant icing and sprinkles. I’ve spent years tweaking this recipe to get the ideal balance of soft center and crisp edges. These cookies don’t just look pretty—they taste just as dreamy.

I love how versatile and forgiving this dough is. Whether you’re baking with kids or prepping for a cookie exchange, it holds its shape perfectly and bakes evenly. And the icing? Smooth, shiny, and easy to work with. Let me show you exactly how to make these cookies so you can enjoy every step—from mixing to decorating.

---

Why You’ll Love These Perfect Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies are soft-baked with buttery vanilla flavor and a tender bite that holds up under icing. Unlike store-bought versions, they don’t crumble or taste overly sweet. The dough is easy to roll and doesn’t spread too much in the oven, so your cookie cutter shapes stay sharp and clean. They’re perfect for frosting, gifting, or simply devouring warm out of the oven.

---

What Kind of Icing Works Best for Sugar Cookies?

Royal icing gives a professional finish and hardens beautifully, making the cookies stackable. If you’re short on time or baking with kids, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works great too. I usually use royal icing for detailed decorations and the glaze when I want something quicker and more casual. Both options taste fantastic, so it really depends on your decorating goals.

---

Options for Substitutions

You can make these sugar cookies dairy-free by using vegan butter, though the texture may be slightly softer. If you’re avoiding refined sugar, coconut sugar can be used, but it will darken the dough and slightly alter the flavor. For gluten-free baking, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum will do the trick, though chilling the dough a bit longer helps maintain the shape while baking.

---

Ingredients for These Perfect Sugar Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is the base of this dough, providing richness and that signature buttery flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cookies maintain their shape.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds structure and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Deepens the flavor and gives that nostalgic sugar cookie aroma.
• Almond Extract (optional): A small amount elevates the flavor profile and gives the cookies a bakery-style taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough, creating the sturdy, yet soft texture.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that adds a bit of lightness without causing spread.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.

---

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes on medium-high speed. This step is essential for a smooth dough and a light, tender cookie.

---

Step 2: Add the Egg and Extracts

Crack in the egg and beat until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract and optional almond extract. Mix again until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

---

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low until a soft dough forms. It should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

---

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two portions, flatten into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1–2 hours or overnight. This step ensures the cookies hold their shape when baked and prevents spreading.

---

Step 5: Roll and Cut

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

---

Step 6: Bake

Bake the cookies for 9–11 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

---

Step 7: Decorate

Once cooled, decorate with royal icing or glaze. Let the icing set for several hours or overnight before stacking or storing. Add sprinkles immediately after icing if desired.

---

How Long to Prepare the Perfect Sugar Cookies

Prep Time: Preparing the dough, cutting out shapes, and chilling takes about 30–40 minutes, with an additional 1–2 hours of chill time. While the chilling process is mostly hands-off, it’s essential for getting that clean edge and soft-but-sturdy cookie texture.

Baking & Decorating Time: Baking a batch takes around 10 minutes, and decorating can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how detailed you want your designs. Plan for about 2.5 to 3 hours total if you include decorating.

---

Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies

• Use room temperature butter and egg to ensure even mixing.
• Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling to prevent spreading.
• Roll between parchment sheets to avoid adding too much flour, which can dry out the cookies.
• Dip cutters in flour to get cleaner shapes.
• Let cookies cool completely before decorating to prevent melting icing.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the chill time: This leads to cookies that puff up and lose their shape.
• Overmixing the dough: Can create tough, dense cookies.
• Overbaking: Sugar cookies should be just lightly golden on the bottom, not browned.
• Adding too much flour: Makes the dough dry and crumbly.
• Using too much icing at once: Thin layers work best and set faster.

---

What to Serve With Perfect Sugar Cookies?

1. Hot Chocolate

Pairing a soft sugar cookie with a rich cup of hot cocoa is the ultimate winter treat.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Crush the cookies and sprinkle over ice cream for a sweet and crunchy contrast.

3. Tea or Coffee

Mildly sweet cookies balance perfectly with a bold brew.

4. Fresh Berries

Add a tart, fresh element that cuts through the sweetness.

5. Whipped Cream or Yogurt Dip

Great for dipping smaller cookie shapes at a party or brunch.

---

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store decorated or plain cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment between layers if iced.

Refrigerator: Not necessary unless filled with dairy-based icing, in which case store for up to a week.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies (plain or decorated) in layers with wax paper in between. They stay fresh for up to 3 months. You can also freeze dough discs and thaw overnight before rolling.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per cookie (approximate, without icing):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fiber: 0g

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of flour works best for sugar cookies?

All-purpose flour gives the best balance of structure and tenderness. Avoid cake or bread flour.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This usually happens if the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or if the butter was too soft.

How do I get vibrant icing colors?

Use gel food coloring for strong, vivid colors without altering the icing texture.

Can I decorate these with kids?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for little hands. Just prepare some glaze and sprinkles and let them get creative.

---

Conclusion

Perfect Sugar Cookies are the kind of treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. They’re simple, classic, and fun to make for any occasion. With a buttery bite and a blank canvas for icing creativity, these cookies are ideal for holidays, parties, or quiet weekend baking. Mastering this recipe means you always have a reliable go-to for edible gifts or sweet moments. So grab your cutters and let’s bake some joy!

---

Print