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The BEST Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe

Four soft sugar cookies topped with thick, pale pink frosting stacked on a white plate.
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Follow this simple guide to make the best soft and chewy sugar cookies. This classic recipe yields tender, melt-in-your-mouth treats perfect for any occasion, including decorating.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 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. This step helps achieve a soft texture.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 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 on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours. Chilling prevents spreading.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. If you plan to cut shapes, dust your cookie cutters lightly with flour.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or use a round cutter for simple circles. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just set and very lightly golden. For chewier cookies, err on the side of underbaking slightly.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Frost or decorate as desired once fully cooled.

Notes

  • For the softest cookies, do not skip chilling the dough. This controls spread and thickens the center.
  • If you prefer crisp edges, bake for an extra minute or two until the edges are clearly golden brown.
  • This recipe works well for cut-out sugar cookies if the dough is chilled thoroughly before rolling.
  • Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor in these vanilla sugar cookies.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/soft-and-chewy-sugar-cookies-recipe/