Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you have been searching for a timeless treat that never fails to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings, the Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines buttery richness with just the right balance of sweetness, resulting in cookies that are crisp on the edges and tender in the center. Whether you’re baking for holiday celebrations, special occasions, or a simple afternoon pick-me-up, these sugar cookies offer a delightful canvas for creativity and flavors that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies lies in a short and straightforward ingredient list, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect cookie. From tenderizing the dough to delivering a pretty golden hue, these essentials work harmoniously for a consistently excellent bake.

• All-purpose flour (2 ¾ cups): Provides the structure and body needed for cookies that hold their shape perfectly.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly for that delicate tenderness while keeping the texture light.
• Baking powder (½ tsp): Adds a little extra lift, ensuring a fine crumb and gentle bite.
• Unsalted butter, softened (1 cup): The star that brings richness and adds to the melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens the dough and contributes to a subtle crispness on the edges.
• Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients and adds moisture for a tender center.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Infuses the dough with warmth and enhances overall flavor depth.
• Almond extract (½ tsp, optional): A lovely addition that adds a gentle nutty aroma, elevating the classic flavor.
• Extra granulated sugar (¼ cup, for rolling): Coats the edges for a sparkling finish and a slight crunch.

How to Make Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your cookies will bake evenly and release easily without sticking or breaking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This mix is vital for ensuring your cookies have the perfect texture and rise just right. Setting this aside keeps everything ready to blend with the creamy base next.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture looks fluffy and light—about 2 to 3 minutes. This process creates air pockets, which translate to a tender yet crisp cookie texture that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if you’re using it. These bring moisture and exciting depth to your dough, making the cookies flavorful beyond the typical sugar cookie experience.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can make cookies tough, so keep it gentle and vigilant to maintain that tender crumb everyone loves.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into portions, wrap them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about one hour. Chilling firms the dough, making rolling and cutting neat shapes much easier, plus it helps the cookies keep their form during baking.

Step 7: Roll Out and Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Then, use cookie cutters to cut your dough into your favorite shapes. This step turns baking into creativity, perfect for celebrations or just personal enjoyment.

Step 8: Sugar Coat the Edges

Dip the edges of each cookie lightly into the extra granulated sugar. This little touch adds visual sparkle and a wonderful subtle crunch that makes each bite an adventure.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place your shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until their edges turn a lovely golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before decorating or indulging in their buttery goodness.

How to Serve Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Once your Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies are cooled, feel free to dress them up with royal icing, colorful sprinkles, or even a dusting of powdered sugar. These garnishes bring festive charm and can match any occasion, from birthday parties to cozy tea times.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea, freshly brewed coffee, or a cold glass of milk. If you’re serving a dessert platter, consider complementing them with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to round out the flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, arrange cookies on a decorative platter or layer them in a pretty tin tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. You can also sandwich them with flavored jams or frostings to add a delightful surprise and turn simple sugar cookies into bite-sized treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and maintain their crisp edges. They will stay delicious for up to a week, perfect for nibbling on during your busy days.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want a sweet snack later, simply thaw them at room temperature, preserving their fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This refreshes their texture and melts the sugar edges just enough to elevate every bite.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond extract with another flavor?

Absolutely. While almond extract adds a lovely nuance, you can substitute it with lemon or orange zest, or simply omit it for a pure vanilla flavor. It’s all about what you love.

How thick should I roll the dough for perfect cookies?

Rolling the dough to about ¼-inch thickness ensures the cookies bake evenly and hold their shape well without becoming too thick or too crispy. It’s the sweet spot for texture and appearance.

Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms the dough, making it easier to roll and cut clean shapes. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking so they keep their beautiful forms.

Can these cookies be decorated with frosting?

Definitely! These classic sugar cookies make a perfect base for royal icing, buttercream, or any frosting. Decorating them can be a fun activity to personalize your batch for holidays or special occasions.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

When properly stored in an airtight container, they maintain the best texture and flavor for up to one week. Beyond that, freezing is a great option to extend freshness.

Final Thoughts

You really cannot go wrong with the Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe. It’s simple, dependable, and endlessly customizable, making it a staple for your cookie repertoire. So grab your rolling pin and cookie cutters and get ready to create sweet memories that will fill your kitchen with warmth and happiness.

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