These classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and perfectly sweet. With a hint of vanilla, they’re the ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a simple sweet snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
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Total Time: 25-30 minutes
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Servings: 24 cookies
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Calories per Serving: Approximately 150 kcal
Full List of Ingredients
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup vanilla sugar (for rolling the cookies)
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1 tablespoon milk (optional for a softer dough)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You can use an electric mixer for this step to make it quicker.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
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Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender texture. If the dough feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to help it come together.
6. Roll the Dough
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Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the vanilla sugar (or regular granulated sugar, if you prefer) to coat the outside.
7. Flatten the Cookies
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Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a fork or your fingers. This will help them spread evenly as they bake.
8. Bake the Cookies
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Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
9. Cool and Serve
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Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
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Calories: 150
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Fat: 7g
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Protein: 1g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugars: 12g
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Sodium: 50mg
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Sugar cookies are a classic treat with roots in many cultures, known for their simplicity and delicious flavor. This version with vanilla sugar adds an extra layer of sweetness and aroma, making it a favorite in homes and bakeries worldwide. Whether it’s for holiday cookie exchanges or just an everyday snack, sugar cookies have become a timeless favorite.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
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Perfectly Soft: These cookies bake up soft and chewy with just the right amount of sweetness.
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Versatile: You can easily customize them by adding sprinkles, colored sugar, or even chocolate chips to make them your own.
Health Benefits
Though sugar cookies are a treat, this recipe offers the joy of homemade baking without added preservatives or artificial ingredients. They’re a fun way to indulge in a sweet snack, and baking them together with loved ones can be a bonding experience that adds a dash of joy to any day.
Serving Suggestions
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With Tea or Coffee: These cookies make the perfect pairing for your afternoon tea or coffee.
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For the Holidays: Decorate them with colorful sprinkles or icing to create festive treats for the holiday season.
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As a Gift: Package the cookies in a cute box or jar for a homemade gift.
Cooking Tips
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies and take them out of the oven when the edges are just starting to turn golden. They will firm up as they cool.
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Experiment with Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough for a new twist.
Variations to Try
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Chocolate-Dipped: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for a decadent touch.
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Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add lemon zest and a bit of lemon juice to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
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Spiced Sugar Cookies: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spiced version of these cookies.
Conclusion
These Vanilla Sugar Cookies are a delightful, simple treat that will please everyone with their soft, chewy texture and sweet vanilla flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with a hot drink, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 1 month.
2. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use regular granulated sugar or brown sugar in place of cane sugar for a different flavor.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
4. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
5. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, once the cookies have cooled, you can store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.
6. Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the dough for added crunch.
7. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and substitute vegan butter for the butter.
8. Can I decorate these cookies?
Yes, you can decorate them with royal icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar for a fun touch.
9. How do I make the cookies more crispy?
For crispier cookies, flatten the dough balls more before baking and bake a little longer.
10. Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Powdered sugar can be used, but it will alter the texture, making the cookies softer. Granulated sugar gives them more structure.