Ultimate Vanilla Sugar Cookies

The Joy of Baking Vanilla Sugar Cookies

If there’s one treat that brings a smile to faces young and old, it’s a classic vanilla sugar cookie. My journey with this recipe began in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the enticing aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air. Every holiday season, we would gather to bake these delectable treats, rolling out dough and cutting shapes that were, more often than not, far from perfect but full of love. This recipe is not just about making cookies; it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, want to impress guests at a gathering, or simply need a sweet indulgence, this vanilla sugar cookie recipe is here for you.

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this particular vanilla sugar cookie recipe stand out from the rest? For starters, the balance of butter and sugar creates a delightful texture—soft yet slightly crisp around the edges. This cookie is incredibly versatile; you can decorate them for holidays or simply enjoy their delicious simplicity. Plus, they are quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for those last-minute baking sessions.

"Baked these for a family gathering, and they were a hit! Perfect balance of sweetness and so easy to make." – A happy baker.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Before diving into the ingredients, let’s briefly overview how you’ll make these cookies. You’ll start by creaming butter and sugar until they’re light and fluffy. Next, you’ll blend in an egg and vanilla before bringing dry ingredients into the mix. The dough doesn’t need chilling—so no waiting time! Finally, after rolling it out and cutting your favorite shapes, you’ll bake these cookies to golden perfection. Easy enough, right? Let’s get into the details!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delightful vanilla sugar cookies, gather the following:

• 1 cup (227g) Unsalted Butter (Chilled, Cubed)
• 1 cup (200g) Granulated White Sugar
• 1.5 tsp (7.5g) Vanilla Extract
• 1 Large Egg (Chilled)
• 2 tsp (9.5g) Baking Powder
• 1/2 tsp (3g) Salt
• 3 cups (360g) All-Purpose Flour

Note: You can substitute unsalted butter with margarine if needed, but the flavor may differ slightly. Eager to add a hint of zest? Try swapping in lemon or almond extract for a twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal baking.

2. Prepare Cookie Sheets: I recommend using perforated baking mats or Reynold’s cookie baking sheets for consistent cookie shapes and even baking.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat chilled butter and granulated sugar together until smooth—about 2 minutes. Avoid over-creaming to prevent cookie spread.

4. Add Vanilla and Egg: Incorporate the vanilla extract and the chilled egg, mixing until well combined.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour.

6. Blend Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully combined, and the dough pulls away from the bowl.

7. Roll Out the Dough: Place the dough on a floured surface, using a sheet of wax paper if preferred. Divide the dough into three portions for easier handling. Roll each to about 1/4” thick and cut into your desired shapes.

8. Bake the Cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

9. Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool on the sheets until firm enough to transfer to a wire rack.

Best Way to Serve

These vanilla sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but you can take them to the next level! Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an à la mode experience, or drizzle some melted chocolate on top for a decadent treat. Not to mention, they’re fantastic alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk. Want to get festive? Try decorating them with royal icing or sprinkles to brighten up your holiday table.

Storage Tips

To keep your vanilla sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen! Just stack layers of cookies separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. For best results, enjoy them within three months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply let them thaw at room temperature.

Expert Advice

Here are a few tips to elevate your cookie game:

• Ensure your butter is at the right temperature (chilled but not hard) for optimal creaming.
• Don’t skip the step of rolling out the dough to 1/4” thick; this ensures even baking.
• Experiment with different cookie shapes using cookie cutters for various occasions.

Creative Twists

Feel like experimenting? Here are a couple of variations:

• Spiced Variation: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday spice.
• Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in chocolate chips for a traditional twist that adds a melty richness.
• Nutty Option: Incorporate slivers of almonds or crushed walnuts to add texture and flavor.

Your Questions Answered

Q: Can I chill the dough?
A: While chilling the dough isn’t necessary, it can help if you’re working in a warmer kitchen. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Q: How long do I bake these cookies?
A: Bake for 7-8 minutes; however, keep an eye on them! Oven temperatures can vary slightly.

Q: Can I substitute all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but results may vary slightly.

This vanilla sugar cookie recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an opportunity to create wonderful memories in the kitchen. Happy baking!

Vanilla Sugar Cookies

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• Total Time: 23 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic vanilla sugar cookie recipe that balances soft and slightly crisp textures, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (227g) Unsalted Butter (Chilled, Cubed)
• 1 cup (200g) Granulated White Sugar
• 1.5 tsp (7.5g) Vanilla Extract
• 1 Large Egg (Chilled)
• 2 tsp (9.5g) Baking Powder
• 1/2 tsp (3g) Salt
• 3 cups (360g) All-Purpose Flour

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare cookie sheets with perforated baking mats or Reynold’s cookie baking sheets.
3. Cream together chilled butter and granulated sugar until smooth, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the vanilla extract and the chilled egg, mixing until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and all-purpose flour.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4” thick and cut into desired shapes.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 7-8 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Let cookies cool on the sheets before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: vanilla cookies, sugar cookies, dessert, baking, holiday treats