If you’re craving a timeless treat that brings a smile with every bite, you’ve got to try this Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies are the perfect balance of tender chewiness and a delicate sugar crust that gently cracks as you bite into them. They’re buttery, slightly sweet with just a hint of almond, and melt in your mouth so effortlessly. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or a festive get-together, this recipe turns simple ingredients into pure cookie magic that feels like a warm hug from your oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the creamy butter that delivers richness to the combination of vanilla and almond extracts that tease your senses. Getting these essentials right means you’re just one step away from cookie perfection.
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your cookies their structure and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently, contributing to that perfect chew.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to create the ideal light texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweeps in sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds the dough and enhances the cookie’s softness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle nutty note that makes these cookies uniquely irresistible.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Creates that delightful crackly crust on the outside.
How to Make Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready to bake your cookies evenly the moment they’re shaped. It’s a small step but essential to achieving the perfect texture.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This uniform blend of dry ingredients guarantees an even rise and tenderness throughout your cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer or a sturdy whisk, beat the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process traps air, giving your cookies their soft crumb and light texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Beat in the large egg until fully combined into the buttery mixture. Then add the vanilla and almond extracts, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and aromatic. These extracts add an incredible depth of flavor that will make your cookies unforgettable.
Step 5: Mix Dry into Wet
Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. This gentle mixing is key—not overdoing it keeps your cookies tender and chewy rather than tough and cakey.
Step 6: Shape and Sugar Coat
Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized portions and roll each into a smooth ball with your hands. Next, roll each dough ball in the reserved 1/4 cup granulated sugar to create a sparkly, crackled coating that adds texture and a bit of extra sweetness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the sugared dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your fingertips. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges just begin to turn golden—this moment is key as it keeps cookies soft yet slightly crisp on the edges.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes after baking—they’re fragile fresh out of the oven. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set perfectly while maintaining the soft and chewy center we all adore.
How to Serve Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your serving game by sprinkling a pinch of colored sugar or edible glitter just after rolling your dough balls for a festive pop of color. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a cozy warmth that pairs beautifully with the almond and vanilla notes.
Side Dishes
These cookies are stellar on their own, but why not pair them with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea or coffee? The creamy drinks perfectly complement the sweet, chewy texture. For a special treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Pack these Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe treats in a decorative tin or clear jar to gift friends and family—they make a heartwarming homemade present. Or, arrange them on a pretty platter surrounded by fresh fruit like berries or citrus slices for a charming party platter. You can even sandwich two cookies with a layer of jam or frosting for an irresistible twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies soft and fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Adding a slice of bread inside the container helps maintain their chewiness by absorbing excess moisture.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, these sugar cookies freeze wonderfully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to three months when frozen properly.
Reheating
To bring your frozen or stored cookies back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This gentle heat refreshes their softness without drying them out. Alternatively, a 10-second zap in the microwave can give you a quick, warm bite.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning your cookies.
How do I make sure my cookies stay soft and chewy?
The key is not to overmix your dough and to bake them just until the edges turn golden. Overbaking will dry them out and make them crispy instead.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruits can add exciting textures and flavors to your Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe.
Why is my dough too sticky to handle?
If your dough feels too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This firms up the butter, making the dough easier to scoop and shape.
Can I substitute almond extract with something else?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can skip it or replace it with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The cookies will still be delicious—just a bit less nutty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully comforting about making and sharing the Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe. It’s a simple way to fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. Whether it’s a sweet treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a cherished classic. I encourage you to dive into this recipe and savor every delightful bite!
Print
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a classic treat with a delightful texture, featuring a tender crumb and a slight crunch from the sugar coating. Perfect for any occasion, they combine vanilla and almond extracts for a subtle, rich flavor that complements the buttery dough.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cookies evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the dough.
- Add Egg: Add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until fully incorporated, which helps to bind the ingredients.
- Add Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and fragrant.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Avoid Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix as this can make the cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
- Shape Dough: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls using your hands, preparing them for sugar coating.
- Roll in Sugar: Roll each dough ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until evenly coated, which adds a sweet crust.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for room to spread.
- Flatten Dough Balls: Gently press each dough ball down with the bottom of a glass or your fingers to slightly flatten them, allowing even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown, indicating they are perfectly baked.
- Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they set properly.
Notes
- Do not overmix the dough to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
- Use room temperature butter for easier creaming and better dough consistency.
- Spacing cookies about 2 inches apart helps prevent them from sticking together during baking.
- The slight flattening of the dough balls ensures even cooking and a uniform shape.
- Almond extract enhances the flavor but can be omitted or substituted with additional vanilla extract if preferred.
