The Best Sugar Cookies Ever

If you’re looking for the ultimate sugar cookie recipe, look no further. These homemade sugar cookies are crisp on the edges, soft in the center, and perfectly sweetened. Paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this recipe is a go-to for holidays, celebrations, or whenever a cookie craving strikes. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this classic sugar cookie recipe is easy to follow and always delivers delicious results.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:
3/4 cup butter (softened)
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup butter (softened)
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

For the Sugar Cookies:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy (about 1 minute).
2. Add the sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
3. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and beat just until the dough comes together.
6. Form the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. Roll the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
9. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake for 8–11 minutes, depending on desired softness. For softer cookies, bake for 8 minutes.
11. Remove from oven and let the cookies cool completely before frosting.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
3. Beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and fully blended.
4. Add food coloring if desired and mix until evenly colored.
5. Frost the cooled cookies and decorate as desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

• Serve the sugar cookies at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
• Allow the frosting to set slightly before stacking or serving at parties.
• Pair them with milk, hot cocoa, or tea for a cozy treat.
• Decorate with festive sprinkles or colored frosting for holidays and special occasions.
• For neat presentation, use a piping bag for the frosting and chill briefly to set before serving.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store frosted or unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Refrigerator: Store cookies in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze unfrosted cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost before serving.
• Freezing Frosted Cookies: Flash-freeze frosted cookies on a baking sheet until firm, then store in layers with wax paper in an airtight container.
• Freezing Dough: Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

Variations

1. Lemon Sugar Cookies
   Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon zest and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough for a bright citrus twist. You can also add lemon zest to the cream cheese frosting for a fresh and tangy finish.
2. Funfetti Sugar Cookies
   Fold 1/2 cup of rainbow sprinkles into the dough before chilling for a festive, colorful cookie. These are especially fun for birthdays and holidays. You can also add extra sprinkles on top of the frosting.
3. Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies
   Once baked and cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted dark, milk, or white chocolate. Let them set on parchment paper. This adds elegance and extra richness to the cookies.
4. Spiced Sugar Cookies
   Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This adds a cozy, warm spice that makes the cookies perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
5. Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
   Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly, as gluten-free dough tends to be more delicate.
6. Almond Sugar Cookies
   Increase the almond extract to 1 teaspoon and top the frosting with sliced almonds. This enhances the nutty flavor and gives a nice crunch.
7. Peppermint Sugar Cookies
   Replace the almond extract with 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Top with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the frosting for a festive holiday cookie.
8. Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
   Brown the butter before mixing it into the dough for a rich, nutty flavor. Let the browned butter cool slightly before using. This variation deepens the flavor without altering the structure.
9. Marbled Frosted Sugar Cookies
   Divide the cream cheese frosting into separate bowls and add different colors. Swirl them lightly together before spreading to create a beautiful marbled look on top of each cookie.
10. Mini Sugar Cookie Sandwiches
    Bake smaller cookies and use the cream cheese frosting as a filling to make sandwich cookies. Roll the edges in sprinkles or crushed nuts for added flair and texture.

These variations let you customize your sugar cookies to suit any occasion, mood, or season—all while keeping the same soft, buttery base you love.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, the dough can be made in advance and chilled for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.
2. Do I need to chill the dough?
   Yes, chilling the dough helps firm the butter, making it easier to roll and cut. It also helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
3. Can I skip the almond extract?
   Absolutely. If you’re not a fan of almond flavor or have an allergy, just leave it out or replace it with an extra 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
4. How thick should I roll the dough?
   For soft, thick sugar cookies, roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Thinner dough will produce crispier cookies.
5. Why did my cookies spread too much?
   This usually happens when the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or if the butter was too soft. Make sure the dough is cold before baking.
6. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
   Yes. Allow cookies to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. You can freeze them with or without frosting.
7. What kind of frosting works best?
   Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that balances the sweet cookie. However, royal icing or buttercream can also be used depending on your preference.
8. How do I get evenly baked cookies?
   Use parchment paper and rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking. Also, make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to avoid over- or under-baking.
9. Can I color the frosting?
   Yes, you can add a few drops of gel or liquid food coloring to the frosting to suit any theme or holiday.
10. How do I store frosted cookies without ruining the decoration?
    Let the frosting set completely before stacking. Place wax or parchment paper between layers in an airtight container to prevent smudging. Store in a cool place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

These truly are the best sugar cookies ever. With a buttery, tender crumb and a smooth, sweet frosting, they’re the perfect treat for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion. Simple, reliable, and endlessly customizable, this recipe will become a staple in your baking collection. Try it once, and you’ll return to it time and time again.

Print