Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug in cookie form, this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe is the one to try. These cookies bring together that perfect balance of tender, buttery softness and just the right hint of almond and vanilla, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels both nostalgic and wonderfully fresh. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a casual snack, or just because, these cookies promise delight with every bite. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll quickly become your go-to recipe for every occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe uses simple ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver that unbeatable soft texture and rich flavor. Each ingredient is key, adding something special to the dough—whether it’s the creaminess of cream cheese, the sweetness and structure from sugar and flour, or the fragrant touch of almond extract that elevates the cookies.

• 3/4 cup salted butter (softened): Provides a creamy richness and essential fat for tenderness.
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Adds moisture and a slight tang that keeps the cookies soft and flavorful.
• 1 & 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve a delicate crumb.
• 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a classic, comforting aroma.
• 1 & 3/4 teaspoons almond extract: Gives the cookies a distinctive, slightly nutty note that makes them stand out.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled): Creates structure while keeping the cookies thick and soft.

How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by beating the softened butter on medium speed until it turns soft and fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates the silky base that lets your cookies stay tender yet hold their shape.

Step 2: Add Cream Cheese

Mix in your softened cream cheese and beat for another minute until it’s fully combined. The cream cheese is a secret ingredient that really makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth moist.

Step 3: Incorporate Sugar

Add the sugar and keep beating the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes so it becomes fluffy and light. This is where the dough starts to come alive with sweetness and texture.

Step 4: Mix Egg and Extracts

Throw in the egg alongside vanilla and almond extracts. Beat everything well, then don’t forget to scrape the bowl sides and bottom with a spatula to ensure even mixing. This prevents any pockets of unmixed ingredients and keeps your dough consistent.

Step 5: Add Salt and Flour

Sprinkle in the salt and flour, then beat only until just combined. Overmixing here will toughen the dough, so scrape down the bowl and stop once the dough comes together. It will be a bit sticky, which is exactly what you want for that soft texture.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Transfer your dough onto plastic wrap or into a sealed container and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, freezing it for 1 to 2 hours works too. Cooling is essential—it lets the flour hydrate and firms up the dough for easy handling and thicker cookies.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Once chilled, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with silicone mats or parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Step 8: Roll and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, then roll your dough out to a thick 3/8 inch. This thickness is key—too thin and your cookies won’t stay soft and fluffy. Use floured cookie cutters and press firmly for clean edges, wiping away any excess flour around the cutters before lifting.

Step 9: Chill Cut Cookies Before Baking

If your shaped dough warms up while you work, pop the cookie sheets in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to keep the dough cool. This step helps maintain shape and prevents spreading during baking.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection

Bake smaller cookies for about 9 minutes, and larger shapes for 10 to 11 minutes. Remember not to let them brown—the edges should stay pale, and the bottoms just barely golden. This ensures maximum softness once cooled.

Step 11: Cool and Frost

Let your cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to an airtight container. Once fully cooled, decorate with your favorite frosting like a silky buttercream or classic royal icing to elevate these delicious treats even more.

How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of colored sugar, sprinkles, or edible glitter can add a festive, joyful touch to your cookies. Or try a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for a little texture contrast that makes each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

Pair these Soft Sugar Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, a cup of hot tea, or even a rich coffee latte. The creamy drinks complement the gentle almond notes perfectly, turning snack time into a cozy moment you won’t forget.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your cookies and tie them with colorful ribbon for a charming homemade gift. You can also sandwich frosting in between two cookies for delightful cookie sandwiches or arrange them on a festive platter with fresh berries and edible flowers to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover soft sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them wonderfully soft for up to five days—perfect if you want to prepare them ahead of a party or simply enjoy them for a few days.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies in a sealed container or bag for up to three months. For dough, freeze it tightly wrapped, either in one block or wrapped in portions, then thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and cutting.

Reheating

If your cookies lose a bit of their soft, fresh-baked texture, a quick 5-10 second zap in the microwave can bring back that warm softness. Just be careful not to overheat or they might become tough.

FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Absolutely! If you use unsalted butter, add a little extra salt (about 1/4 teaspoon) to enhance the flavors. Salt helps balance sweetness and boosts taste, so don’t skip it.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

Simply swap in an equal amount of vanilla extract or leave it out if you prefer. The almond extract is a lovely flavor twist, but the cookies will still be delicious without it.

Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps the flour absorb moisture for better texture, keeps the dough firm so cookies don’t spread too much, and enhances the flavors. Patience here really pays off!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but results may vary depending on the brand. Sometimes adding a bit of xanthan gum helps achieve the right texture.

How soft will these cookies be after baking?

These cookies stay soft, thick, and tender even after cooling. They’re not crispy or crunchy at all, making them the perfect classic soft sugar cookie everyone loves.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a good soft sugar cookie, and this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe does not disappoint. It’s simple, approachable, and bakes up tender, flavorful cookies that bring tons of joy to every bite. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to these little bites of happiness.

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