The Best Homemade Sugar Cookie Recipe Easy
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These homemade sugar cookies are a classic treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have soft, buttery cookies ready in no time.
- Perfectly sweet and tender—each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to the rich butter and just the right amount of sugar.
- Endlessly customizable—decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a fun twist.
- Great for any occasion—whether it’s a holiday party, a bake sale, or just a cozy night in, these cookies always hit the spot.
Recipe

These classic homemade sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for any occasion. They hold their shape well when baked, making them ideal for decorating with icing or sprinkles.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder, salt, and flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes:
- For softer cookies, bake for the shorter time. For crispier edges, bake longer.
- Dough can be chilled for 30 minutes if too soft to handle.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: Makes about 36 cookies
Nutrition
Homemade sugar cookies are a classic treat, perfect for any occasion. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 85mg |
| Total Carbs | 18g |
| Sugars | 10g |
| Protein | 1g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade sugar cookies with a sweet beverage, like hot cocoa or a frothy milkshake, to make them even more special. For a festive twist, I often top them with colorful sprinkles, melted chocolate, or even crushed candy canes. It’s fun to get creative and see how these little extras can turn a simple treat into something unforgettable!
Sweet Beverage Pairings
When I’m enjoying a plate of soft, chewy sugar cookies, I love sipping on something equally sweet to bring out the flavors even more. A glass of cold milk is classic, its creaminess balancing the cookie’s sweetness perfectly. Hot cocoa with a hint of vanilla feels cozy, especially on chilly days. I also enjoy pairing them with a fruity iced tea, like raspberry or peach, for a revitalizing twist. Lemonade’s tangy sweetness complements the cookies beautifully too. Sometimes, I’ll even indulge with a creamy milkshake or a latte flavored with caramel or cinnamon for an extra treat.
Festive Topping Ideas
There’s nothing like adding a little extra sparkle to sugar cookies, whether it’s for a holiday or just because—festive toppings turn them into edible works of art. I love rolling the edges in rainbow sprinkles for birthdays or crushed peppermint for Christmas. A drizzle of melted chocolate or a dusting of edible glitter makes them pop. For a cozy touch, try cinnamon sugar or a dollop of jam. If you’re feeling fancy, pipe royal icing into delicate designs. The best part? You can mix and match, so every bite feels special. Just remember, a little creativity goes a long way!