Soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet, sugar cookies are a classic treat loved by all ages. The best part? You won’t believe how easy this sugar cookies recipe is! With simple ingredients, no complicated techniques, and quick preparation, you can bake a batch of irresistible cookies in no time. Perfect for home bakers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, these sugar cookies are ideal for holidays, parties, or everyday enjoyment.
Why This Sugar Cookies Recipe Is a Favorite
No fancy equipment required – just a bowl, whisk, and baking sheet
Quick prep time – ready to bake in under 15 minutes
Soft and chewy texture – stays fresh for days
Customizable – decorate with icing, sprinkles, or leave plain
Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for delicious, stress-free cookies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
Step-by-Step: Easy Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt
Set aside
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients
Mix until a soft dough forms
Tip: Do not overmix—this keeps cookies tender
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls
Place on baking sheet, about 2 inches apart
Flatten slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass
Sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles if desired
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden
Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes
Transfer to wire racks to cool completely
Easy Variations to Try
Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a citrus twist
Chocolate Sugar Cookies: Mix 1/4 cup cocoa powder with flour
Holiday Sugar Cookies: Decorate with royal icing or sprinkles for Christmas, Halloween, or Easter
Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies
Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing
Chill dough briefly for thicker cookies
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—cookies spread as they bake
Store in an airtight container to keep soft and fresh
How to Store Sugar Cookies
Room temperature: Up to 5 days in an airtight container
Freezing: Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; baked cookies can be frozen for 2 months
Reheat: Warm in the oven for a few minutes to refresh texture
Why Everyone Loves This Sugar Cookies Recipe
Because it’s:
Quick and simple
Foolproof even for beginners
Soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet
Versatile for any occasion
Truly, you won’t believe how easy this sugar cookies recipe is—and how irresistible the results are.
Final Thoughts
Sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, and this recipe proves that homemade treats don’t need to be complicated. With minimal ingredients, easy steps, and plenty of room for customization, you can bake a batch of soft, delicious sugar cookies anytime. Perfect for gifting, celebrating, or enjoying with your favorite beverage, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.