Description
These classic sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet with a hint of vanilla and almond extracts. Easy to make and ideal for any occasion, they can be decorated with colored sugar or frosting for a festive touch.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and sugar. Beat until just combined, about 45 seconds, to create a creamy base.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well for about 1 minute until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the all-purpose flour and salt. Mix until combined with no visible streaks of flour remaining. Form the dough into a flat, oval disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to firm up.
- Prepare to Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Roll and Cut the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the cookie dough to a 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin. Use cookie cutters to cut desired shapes, then carefully transfer them onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Add Decorations (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the cookies with colored sugar or other decorative toppings before baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake for 8 to 12 minutes depending on the size of the cookies—about 8 minutes for mini cookies, 10 minutes for medium size, and 12 minutes for larger cookies. Watch for the edges to turn just golden brown.
- Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheets before transferring them to a wire rack. Let the cookies cool fully before frosting or serving plain.
Notes
- Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Use room temperature butter and egg for better mixing and fluffy texture.
- If you want extra sweetness and decoration, add colored sugar before baking or frost them once cooled.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Adjust baking time slightly depending on cookie size and your oven’s exact temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
