why make this recipe
Soft Sugar Cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. They are soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday or just a snack at home. Plus, they are easy to make, which makes them great for baking with kids or for a quick dessert fix. With their simple ingredients and delightful flavor, these cookies will surely bring a smile to your face!
how to make Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
- 0.333 cup colored decorating sugar
- 0.66666668653488 cup shortening
- 0.66666668653488 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1.5 cups white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions:
Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place decorating sugar in a small bowl (or use several colors and separate bowls).
Beat shortening and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Mix in sugar until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. Add in vanilla.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and mix until the dough comes together.
Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls. Roll each ball in sugar to coat, then place them 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake in the preheated oven until the bottoms are lightly brown, for about 10 to 12 minutes. Switch the cookie sheets halfway through baking. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.
Enjoy!
how to serve Soft Sugar Cookies
Serve Soft Sugar Cookies warm or at room temperature. They are delightful on their own, but you can also pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, create cookie sandwiches with frosting or spread a little jam in between two cookies.
how to store Soft Sugar Cookies
Keep your Soft Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will be good for up to three months.
tips to make Soft Sugar Cookies
- Make sure your butter is soft but not melted. This helps create a nice texture in the cookies.
- Don’t overbake! For soft cookies, it’s essential to take them out of the oven when they’re just lightly browned on the bottoms.
- Experiment with different colored sugars to make the cookies festive for holidays or parties.
variation
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for a different twist. For a little spice, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the flour mix for a warm flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it might change the texture a bit. Butter gives the cookies a richer flavor.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just let it soften a bit before rolling it out.
3. What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency.
Soft Sugar Cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Sugar Cookies are a classic treat that are soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, they are delightful for baking with kids or as a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients
- 0.33 cup colored decorating sugar
- 0.67 cup shortening
- 0.67 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1.5 cups white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place decorating sugar in a small bowl.
- Beat shortening and butter until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in sugar until well combined, then add eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl as needed. Add vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Roll dough into walnut-sized balls and coat with sugar, placing them 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the bottoms are lightly brown, switching cookie sheets halfway.
- Remove from the oven and transfer cookies to wire racks to cool.
Notes
For best results, ensure butter is soft but not melted. Avoid overbaking for soft cookies. Experiment with colored sugars for festive presentations.