Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

The ultimate Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that can elevate any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cookies fit perfectly into your plans. Made with fewer than 10 simple ingredients, they offer a buttery, sugary flavor that melts in your mouth. Their chewy texture makes them irresistible and perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, baking these cookies is simple for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
• Versatile Flavor: The classic sugar cookie taste pairs well with various toppings or additions, like sprinkles or chocolate chips.
• Perfect Texture: Each bite delivers a soft and chewy experience, making these cookies hard to resist.
• Quick Preparation: From mixing to baking, you can have these cookies ready in under an hour—ideal for last-minute cravings!
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or casual snack time, these cookies cater to all moments.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools ensure consistency and ease during the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: A stand mixer makes combining ingredients effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy cookie dough.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for organized mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Baking Sheets: Quality baking sheets help achieve even baking without sticking.

Ingredients

The ultimate soft & chewy Sugar Cookies made with less than 10 ingredients and bursting with buttery, sugary flavor!

For the Cookies:

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 12 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 Tbsp. whole milk
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 ½ tsp. baking powder
• ¾ tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. baking soda
• granulated sugar, for rolling and garnishing

How to Make Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until creamed and light.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Add in the egg, egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Mix until fully combined while scraping down the sides again if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda).

Step 4: Mix Dry into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture at low speed:
1. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

1. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes or overnight to enhance flavor and texture.
2. If dough appears dry after chilling, refer to recipe notes below.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Prepare Cookie Dough Balls

1. Remove cookie dough from fridge; let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes if very cold.
2. Pour about ¼ cup granulated sugar into a bowl for rolling.

Step 8: Scoop and Roll Dough

1. Scoop around 1½ tablespoons of cookie dough.
2. Roll each portion into balls and then roll in granulated sugar before placing on prepared sheets.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for approximately 8-10 minutes:
1. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

Step 10: Cool

After baking:
1. Let cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of granulated sugar if desired.

Storage Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to three months!

How to Serve Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

Soft & chewy sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also shine when paired with other treats or enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies. Try whole milk for a rich flavor or almond milk for a nutty twist.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Pick your favorite flavor, like vanilla or chocolate chip, for a delicious dessert treat!

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy afternoon snack. The buttery flavor complements both.

As Dessert Toppers

• Crumble soft & chewy sugar cookies over your favorite desserts, like ice cream sundaes or fruit salads, for added texture and sweetness.

Gift Them

• Package them in a decorative box and share with friends or family. Soft & chewy sugar cookies make a wonderful homemade gift!

Cookie Decorating Party

• Host a decorating party where guests can add icing, sprinkles, or other toppings to personalize their cookies. This is perfect for kids and adults alike!

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How to Perfect Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

To achieve the ultimate soft and chewy sugar cookies, follow these helpful tips that ensure every batch is as delightful as the last.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and keeps them soft.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out to maintain their chewiness.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies caused by excess flour.

• Experiment with Flavorings: Add citrus zest or spices like cinnamon for unique flavor variations that complement the sugary taste.

• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment!

Best Side Dishes for Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with soft & chewy sugar cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some options that work wonderfully together.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies with natural tartness from fruits like berries and citrus.

2. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit, then crumble some sugar cookies on top for added crunch and sweetness.

4. Cheese Board: Serve soft cheeses alongside crackers and fruits to create a sophisticated complement to your sweet treats.

5. Hot Chocolate Bar: Create a cozy atmosphere by offering hot cocoa with toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and crushed sugar cookies!

6. Mini Cheesecakes: These creamy cakes provide a rich contrast to the lightness of sugar cookies, making for an enjoyable dessert spread.

7. Caramel Sauce Dip: A sweet dip that pairs perfectly with the buttery flavors of your sugar cookies—ideal for dipping!

8. Nut Mixes: Offer a savory option by providing seasoned nuts alongside your sweet treats; this balance enhances the overall snacking experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking soft & chewy sugar cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect results every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to dense cookies instead of the desired soft texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can create tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause your cookies to spread too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements. Too much flour results in dry cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Ignoring baking times: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Removing them from the oven when they are slightly underbaked ensures they remain soft.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the best soft & chewy sugar cookies?

The key is using room temperature ingredients, chilling the dough, and measuring flour accurately for that perfect texture.

How long do soft & chewy sugar cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3-4 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I add flavors to my soft & chewy sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor and variety.

Why are my sugar cookies not chewy?

If your cookies turn out hard, it may be due to too much flour or overbaking. Be sure to follow the measurements closely!

Final Thoughts

These soft & chewy sugar cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins or swapping out flavors. Try this recipe today for a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy!