Best 2 Basic Sugar Cookie Recipes

Indulge in the timeless classic of freshly baked sugar cookies, a delightful treat that evokes the essence of comfort and nostalgia. These cookies are a staple in bakeries and homes worldwide, captivating hearts with their simple yet irresistible charm. As you embark on this culinary journey, discover a versatile recipe that yields soft and chewy cookies, perfect for any occasion. This comprehensive guide takes you through the process step-by-step, from gathering the essential ingredients to achieving that golden-brown perfection. Along the way, you'll also uncover variations and creative twists that add a personal touch to your sugar cookie creations. Whether you prefer classic, crispy edges or gooey centers, this recipe caters to all tastes. Get ready to whip up a batch of these delectable treats that will leave you and your loved ones craving more.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

BASIC SUGAR COOKIE DOUGH

Basic Sugar Cookie Dough image

Provided by Food Network

Time 1h40m

Yield about 15 cookies

Number Of Ingredients 6

Ingredients

1 stick unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

Steps:

Cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy (1 to 2 minutes). Add egg and vanilla and continue beating until mixture looks smooth (2 minutes). Incorporate flour and salt into butter mixture in low speed. Scrape down sides if bowl. Shape into 2 disks. Wrap disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, 45 to 60 minutes.
Roll out, cut into desired shapes and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven on lightly greased cookie sheets for 8 to 10 minutes.

BASIC SUGAR COOKIE DOUGH FROM GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

Basic Sugar Cookie Dough from Good Housekeeping image

This is an easy, low sugar recipe from Nov 07 Good Housekeeping Magazine. I used it for my rolled cut cookies as well as the base dough for my snowball cookies.

Provided by arizonabayer

Categories Dessert

Time 2h

Yield 50-60 cookies

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

On waxed paper, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
In large bowl, with mixer on medium speed, beat butter and sugar 1 minute or until creamy, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula. Add egg and vanilla, beat until well mixed. Reduce speed to low; gradually beat in flour mixture just until blended, occasionally scraping bowl. **This recipe calls for butter with no substitutions because the butter not only gives the best flavor, but also makes the dough more manageable. Margarines and spreads are too soft to produce a dough that can be rolled easily.
Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate 1 hour for easier handling.
Heat oven to 400*.
Lightly flour your rolling surface, roll out 1/3 of the dough at a time. Keep remaining dough refrigerated.
Place cut cookies about an inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 5 to 9 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown. Remove immediately from cookie sheets place onto cooling racks.

Tips:

Use unsalted butter at room temperature for a more consistent batter.
Don't overmix the batter, as this can result in tough cookies.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This will help the cookies hold their shape better.
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven for even baking.
Don't overbake the cookies, as this can make them dry and crumbly.
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing.

Conclusion:

Sugar cookies are a classic treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and toppings. With the right ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can create delicious sugar cookies that will be the hit of any party or gathering.