If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into the perfect cookie that’s just the right balance of soft and chewy with a sweet sugar-kissed crust, this Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies are irresistibly tender on the inside, with a delightful sugary crunch on the outside, making every bite a little moment of pure joy. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy afternoon treat, or just because you deserve something wonderful, this recipe is simple, straightforward, and incredibly satisfying to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe lies in its classic ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating those melt-in-your-mouth bites you’ll love. Using basic pantry staples ensures the flavor and texture come through beautifully, so let’s take a look at what you’ll need.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup, softened: Provides richness and helps achieve the soft texture.
- Granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to that delicate crunch on the outside.
- Large egg, 1: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons: Adds a warm, fragrant flavor that makes these cookies irresistible.
- All-purpose flour, 2 3/4 cups: The sturdy base that forms the structure of your cookie.
- Baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise perfectly and become tender.
- Baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon: Adds a touch of lift and helps browning for that inviting golden edge.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Granulated sugar for rolling, 1/4 cup: Creates the signature crackled, sugary crust that makes these cookies stand out.
How to Make Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making it easier to enjoy them straight off the tray.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is key for creating that soft texture, soaking moisture into each bite while incorporating air to help the dough rise.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and richness, while the vanilla amps up the flavor with a classic, comforting aroma.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agents and salt distribute evenly throughout the dough, which is essential for consistent texture and flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop gluten and make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
Step 6: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls, then roll each one in the extra 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. This adds that delightful sugary crunch once baked and gives the cookies their signature look.
Step 7: Bake Perfect Cookies
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each. Gently flatten them just a bit, then bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Look for golden edges with centers that are still slightly soft – that’s the secret to their incredible chewiness.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time allows them to set just right without becoming hard, preserving their soft, chewy nature.
How to Serve Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of sparkling coarse sugar or a dusting of powdered sugar on top right after baking to give your cookies a festive sparkle. You might also consider a light brush of melted white chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soft texture.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair delightfully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a fun dessert spread, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm, chewy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Make cookie sandwiches by spreading a thin layer of frosting, ganache, or jam between two cookies. Or get crafty by dipping half of each cookie in melted chocolate and then rolling it in sprinkles or crushed nuts for a playful presentation that’s as delicious as it looks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your baked sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy them whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a tray, freezing until firm, then transferring to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven straight from the freezer and bake for a couple of extra minutes.
Reheating
If you want to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth, microwave a cookie for 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften it up nicely and refresh the chewy texture, making it taste like you just baked it yourself.
FAQs
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is key to the flavor and texture in this Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe. While margarine or oil can work, they may affect both the taste and how chewy the cookies turn out. Butter’s richness and consistency help create the perfect cookie balance.
Why do my cookies spread too much when baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much, the dough might be too warm or you may have used too much butter. Chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking can help the cookies maintain their shape.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even sprinkles can be a fun way to customize your Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe, just fold them in gently after mixing the dough.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind the texture might slightly vary, but it’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
What’s the best way to achieve the perfect chewy texture?
The chewiness comes from the right balance of ingredients and baking time. Make sure not to overbake—cookies should be pulled out when edges are set but centers are still a bit soft; they’ll firm up as they cool.
Final Thoughts
This Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe is a true treasure for any baker looking to create timeless, delicious treats that bring joy to every bite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can fill your kitchen with sweetness and warmth, sharing smiles one cookie at a time. I can’t wait for you to try it and make these delightful cookies a beloved staple in your home.
Print
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a classic treat with a delicate vanilla flavor, perfect for any occasion. They have a tender texture with slightly crisp edges and a sweet sugary coating that adds an irresistible crunch.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, which creates the perfect base texture for the cookies.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly until the mixture becomes well combined and smooth, adding flavor and moisture to the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and seasoning.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough which can lead to tough cookies.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each ball in the 1/4 cup granulated sugar, coating them evenly for added sweetness and a crackly exterior.
- Arrange and Flatten: Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart and gently flatten each ball slightly to encourage even baking and spreading.
- Bake Cookies: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are just slightly underbaked to keep the cookies soft and chewy inside.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they finish firming up without becoming hard.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Flattening the dough balls slightly helps the cookies bake evenly and develop a chewy center.
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake and allow them to cool on the baking sheet.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or substituting half the vanilla extract with almond extract.
