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Easy Sugar Cookies

Tender, buttery sugar cookies that come together in just 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute bake sales, afternoon snacks, or when you need homemade sweetness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings: 24
Calories: 140
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • extra sugar for rolling

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should look pale yellow and feel smooth.
  4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with flour, mixing just until the dough comes together.
  6. Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar.
  7. Place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set but centers still look slightly soft.

Notes

Don't overbake - cookies should look slightly underdone when removed. Use softened butter, not cold. Spoon flour into measuring cup rather than scooping. Store in airtight container for up to one week or freeze for up to three months. Refresh day-old cookies by warming in 300°F oven for 2-3 minutes. Can substitute egg with 3 tbsp applesauce or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water. Chill dough for 30 minutes if cookies spread too much.