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Classic Sugar Cookies

A close-up of four tender sugar cookies piled on a white plate, lightly dusted with sugar.

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A simple recipe for tender, buttery sugar cookies that hold their shape for cutting and decorating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  8. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
  • For best results when cutting shapes, ensure your dough is well-chilled.
  • Decorate with frosting and sprinkles once the cookies have cooled completely.

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