The Best Homemade Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade sugar cookies are a treat you’ll want to make again and again! They’re soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to make – With simple ingredients and clear steps, these cookies come together quickly, even for beginners.
- Endless decorating fun – Get creative with icing, sprinkles, or whatever toppings you love most!
- Family-friendly baking – Perfect for baking with kids or sharing at gatherings, they’re sure to bring smiles all around.
Recipe

Sugar cookies are a classic treat that combines simplicity with a touch of sweetness, perfect for any occasion. With a buttery base and a hint of vanilla, these cookies are versatile and can be decorated to fit any theme or holiday.
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 white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes:
For softer cookies, reduce baking time slightly. For festive cookies, add sprinkles before baking or decorate with icing after cooling.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Wire rack
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Makes about 36 cookies
Nutrition
These sugar cookies are a simple treat, packed with sweetness and a hint of vanilla. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving
Calories | 160
Total Fat | 7g
Saturated Fat | 4g
Cholesterol | 20mg
Sodium | 85mg
Total Carbohydrates | 23g
Dietary Fiber | 0g
Sugars | 15g
Protein | 2g
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade sugar cookies with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or juicy grapes, to balance the sweetness with a touch of freshness. A hot beverage, such as a cozy cup of tea or a steaming mug of cocoa, makes the perfect companion to these treats. It’s a simple, delightful way to enjoy every bite!
Fresh Fruit Pairings
Though sugar cookies are delicious on their own, pairing them with fresh fruit can take them to a whole new level. I love adding slices of strawberries or juicy peaches for a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness. Berries like raspberries or blueberries add a tartness that’s irresistible. Thin apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon feel cozy and familiar. For a tropical twist, I’ll use pineapple or mango—they’re so vibrant and fun. Don’t forget citrus fruits like oranges or tangerines; their zesty flavor adds a surprising pop. Fresh fruit makes every bite exciting and natural, perfect for any occasion.
Hot Beverage Choices
When I’m enjoying a plate of sugar cookies, I always find that a hot beverage makes the experience even cozier. A steaming mug of creamy hot chocolate is my go-to—its sweetness complements the cookies perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll brew a latte or cappuccino; the rich coffee flavors balance the sugary treat beautifully. Herbal teas, like chamomile or peppermint, are lovely too, especially if I want something lighter. On chilly days, a spiced chai tea feels like a warm hug. Whatever you choose, pairing cookies with a hot drink turns a simple snack into a comforting moment.