Sugar cookies are a timeless favorite that captures hearts during the holidays, birthdays, or simply whenever a sweet craving strikes. They are not just any ordinary cookie; their delightful and buttery flavor makes them an essential baking staple in every kitchen. This recipe is easy to follow, allowing bakers of all skill levels to create rolls of satisfying sweetness. Join me as we explore how to whip up these delightful treats!

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• Granulated sugar or colored sugar for decorating

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden finish. Now, in a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will combine the dry ingredients and help distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. It’s this step that helps to create a tender texture in your cookies, so don’t rush!

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

Once your butter and sugar are perfectly blended, it’s time to add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you choose to use it). Beat everything together until the mixture is well-combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to cookies that are a little too tough instead of soft and chewy.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Now comes the crucial step: refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes. This not only helps the flavors meld together but also makes rolling out the dough much easier. While you’re waiting, you can clean up your kitchen or even prepare some icing for decorating later!

Step 6: Roll Out and Cut the Cookies

After chilling, take the dough out of the refrigerator and place it onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out various shapes. This is the joyful part—get creative with your favorite shapes and sizes!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place the cut-out cookies on an ungreased baking sheet and sprinkle some granulated sugar or colored sugar on top for a festive touch. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Make sure to watch them closely—oven times can vary!

Step 8: Cool and Decorate

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Once completely cooled, let your creativity soar! Decorate them with your favorite frosting, icing, or sprinkles.