Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the warm scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, and these Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are sure to bring smiles all around! With a golden exterior that gives way to a soft and pillowy center, each bite is a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and are bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the salt, pure vanilla extract, and the large egg until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until everything is combined — don’t overmix!
- Scoop out the dough and roll it into balls, each about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Roll the dough balls in the remaining granulated sugar until they are generously coated.
- Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, while the centers remain soft and chewy.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a dash of almond extract into the dough along with the vanilla. If you prefer a bit of texture, sprinkle some coarse sea salt on top of the cookies before baking. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft.
Cooking Techniques
Creating soft and chewy cookies is all about the right balance. Be sure not to overbake them; it’s okay if they seem slightly underdone when you pull them out of the oven. They will continue to set as they cool, leaving you with a delightful texture. Using room temperature butter also aids in achieving that perfectly creamy texture when creaming with sugar.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Just roll the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag for easy baking later. You can bake them straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What if I don’t have baking soda?
If you’re out of baking soda, you can replace it with an equal amount of baking powder, though the cookies may be slightly less chewy.
Conclusion
These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are not just any cookies; they’re a warm embrace in dessert form! Perfect for baking together with loved ones or for whipping up on a quiet afternoon, this recipe is sure to make your kitchen feel like home. So, preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and let the sweetness unfold!