Chewy Sugar Cookies

Name: Chewy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar for dipping

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of fresh-baked Chewy Sugar Cookies wafting through your kitchen. With their tender, buttery texture and the perfect balance of sweetness, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re sorting through a busy weekday or celebrating a special moment, this classic cookie recipe is sure to delight. They’re soft, slightly chewy, and simply melt in your mouth—ideal for family gatherings, holiday parties, or as an everyday indulgence. You may choose to add a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor, making these cookies even more special. Get ready to fill your home with warmth and sweetness as you whip up a batch of these delicious sweets!

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their chewy consistency.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Provides a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the cookies.
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional): Adds a subtle nutty flavor for a delightful twist.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the dough, giving structure to the cookies.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Works with baking soda to ensure a perfect texture.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
1/4 cup granulated sugar for dipping: Creates a sweet, crunchy exterior.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), beating until everything is well combined.
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until just blended—be careful not to overmix.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious cookies as they are, or feel free to frost or glaze them for an extra special treat.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies
Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

For extra chewy cookies, do not overbake. The cookies will continue to harden as they cool.
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
You can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to three months; just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Feel free to experiment by adding mini chocolate chips or sprinkles to the dough for a fun twist.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for these cookies?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt to a pinch to balance the flavors.

2. What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you’re not a fan of almond extract, simply omit it or use an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and appear set in the center when ready.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to this sugar cookie recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in about a cup of chocolate chips before rolling the dough into balls.

5. Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking?
If your dough is too warm or you did not measure the flour correctly, the cookies may spread. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help with this.

6. How can I make these sugar cookies more festive?
You can add colored sugar sprinkles on top before baking or frost them with your favorite icing once cooled.

Conclusion

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are a wonderful treat that can brighten any day. Their delightful texture and sweet flavor make them a favorite among cookie lovers. Try this recipe for your next gathering or simply for a cozy night in. Don’t forget to share your cookie creations with friends and family—there’s nothing better than sharing the joy of homemade cookies! Happy baking!

Chewy Sugar Cookies

Print Recipe

Delicious Chewy Sugar Cookies that are soft, slightly chewy, and melt in your mouth. Perfect for any occasion.

Author: hannah-reed
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 11 minutes
Total Time: 26 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar for dipping

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream the softened butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until well combined.
Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until just blended.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat with the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space.
Bake for 10-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy as is, or frost or glaze for an extra special treat.