Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a classic treat loved by many for their simplicity and delicious taste. This recipe will guide you through creating perfectly soft and chewy sugar cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Tasting Notes:

These sugar cookies are wonderfully buttery with just the right amount of sweetness. They have a delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Kitchen Equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (if desired)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. If the dough is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to 1 hour until firm.
7. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply use a knife to cut the dough into squares or rectangles.
9. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, decorate the cookies with icing or enjoy them as is.

Pro Tips:

• Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.
• If you prefer crispy sugar cookies, bake them for a few minutes longer until they are golden brown around the edges.

Variations:

• Add sprinkles or colored sugar before baking for a festive touch.
• Sandwich two cookies together with frosting or jam for an extra indulgent treat.
• Incorporate citrus zest or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist.

FAQs: