The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!
There’s something truly magical about a freshly baked sugar cookie. They come out of the oven with a soft, chewy center and a slightly crisp edge, making them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to share or a comforting dessert to enjoy at home, The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe! has got you covered. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the world of sugar cookies and unlock the secrets to achieving that perfect chewiness!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
This recipe for chewy sugar cookies is not just a one-time wonder; it’s destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Here’s why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again:
- Easy to Follow: The steps are straightforward, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Minimal Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
- Versatile: Enjoy them plain or dress them up with sprinkles, frosting, or a drizzle of chocolate.
- Perfect Texture: They strike the perfect balance between soft, chewy, and slightly crisp edges.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just a Tuesday, these cookies fit right in.
The Essentials
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup (226g) butter, softened to room temperature: This is your base for rich flavor and tenderness.
- 1 1/2 cups (297g) granulated sugar: Sweetness and a crisp exterior come from this ingredient.
- 1 large (50g) egg, room temperature: This binds everything together while adding moisture.
- 2 1/4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookies, providing structure.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2g) baking powder: This gives the cookies a little lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon (1.3g) Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon (4.7g) vanilla extract: A must for that classic cookie flavor.
- 1/4 cup (49.5g) granulated sugar, for rolling cookies: This adds a delightful sugary crust.
Cook’s Kit
Before you start baking, ensure you have the following tools ready:
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for the egg.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar effectively.
- Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop: For evenly portioned cookies.
- Cooling Rack: To let your cookies cool properly after baking.
The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!: Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the cookies! Follow these simple steps for The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the room temperature egg and vanilla extract to your butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and Kosher salt. This will help to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out dough and roll it into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to coat.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your delicious chewy sugar cookies warm or cooled!
Ingredient Flex Options
Want to customize your cookies? Here are some ingredient flex options to consider:
- Butter Substitute: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free alternative.
- Flour Alternatives: Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly.
- Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.
Chef’s Notes
- For the best results, make sure your butter is truly softened to room temperature. This helps in creating a fluffy texture.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step if you have time; chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can enhance the flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different flavored extracts, such as almond or lemon, to switch up the flavor profile.
- Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; every oven is different, and you want to avoid overbaking.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
- To freeze cookie dough, roll into balls, freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe! FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a chewier texture and a hint of molasses flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness as needed.
Why are my cookies flat?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to melted butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and measure your flour accurately.
Can I add frosting to sugar cookies?
Absolutely! These cookies are a great base for frosting. Just let them cool completely before applying any frosting or glaze.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Look for lightly golden edges and a soft center. The cookies will continue to bake slightly from residual heat after being removed from the oven.
Let’s Eat
Now that you have the inside scoop on The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk, sharing them with friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies promise to deliver that perfect chewy texture and delightful sweetness every time. Grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and let your kitchen fill with the heavenly aroma of freshly baked cookies. You won’t regret it!
The BEST Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the room temperature egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and Kosher salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter, and roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
- Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened for fluffy texture.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- Try different flavored extracts for added variety.
