3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Name: 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup sugar; 1 cup butter, at room temperature; 1 cup flour

There’s something undeniably magical about the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. With a mere three ingredients, you can create delightful sugar cookies that are sure to charm your family and evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. Perfect for any occasion or just for a cozy afternoon snack, these sugar cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a slice of comfort.

Why Make This Recipe

Simplicity: With only three ingredients, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
Versatility: These cookies can be enjoyed as they are or dressed up with your favorite toppings.

Once you taste these cookies, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this easy recipe in your baking arsenal.

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies at Home

Are you ready to bake a batch of cookies that will bring joy to your taste buds? Follow this straightforward guide to create your own batch of sugar cookies that are not only easy to make but utterly delicious.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden.
Cream Together Sugar and Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer if you have one, or a whisk if you prefer a workout. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Flour: Gradually incorporate 1 cup of flour into the sugar-butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. You’ll notice the dough is soft and pliable, which is exactly what you want.
Form Dough Balls: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, roughly equal in size. This helps them bake evenly.
Prepare for Baking: Place your dough balls on a baking sheet, leaving some space between them as they will spread while baking.
Flatten the Dough: Using the bottom of a glass, gently flatten each cookie ball to create a uniform shape. This also ensures that they bake properly, achieving that lovely golden hue.
Bake: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Enjoy: After removing the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Finally, enjoy your freshly baked cookies!

Keeping 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies Fresh

Now that you have a batch of delicious cookies, it’s important to know how to store them properly, ensuring they stay fresh and delightful for days to come.

Best Way to Store 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. This is perfect for keeping them soft and tasty.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Just note that they may become firmer in consistency.
Freezing: If you want to save them for future enjoyment, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

The versatility of these cookies opens up a world of serving possibilities. Here are a few ideas that can elevate your cookie experience:

Straight Up: These cookies are delightful on their own, perfect for pairing with a cup of tea or coffee.
Decorate: Add a sprinkle of colored sugar before baking or top them with icing post-baking for a festive touch.
Sandwich Style: Try making cookie sandwiches by placing a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream between two cookies for a creamy treat.
Mix and Match: Serve with various dips, such as chocolate or caramel, for a fun twist.
Pack for Gifts: These cookies make perfect homemade gifts. Assemble them in a jar and tie with a pretty ribbon to make someone’s day!

Tips to Make 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

To help you achieve cookie perfection, here are a few handy tips:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
Experiment with Flavored Extracts: Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for added flavor.

Variations for Fun

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try these flavors to switch things up?

Cocoa Twist: Substitute 1/4 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate version of these delightful cookies.
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the dough for a refreshing, citrusy flavor that brightens these cookies.

FAQs About 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Q: Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before shaping into balls.

Q: Can I substitute the butter?
A: Yes, if you need a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute, though it may affect the flavor slightly.

Q: How can I make these cookies more festive?

Add sprinkles before baking for color.
Use seasonal cookie cutters to create fun shapes for holidays.
Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an eye-catching presentation.

Q: What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
A: If cookies spread unusually, ensure your butter isn’t too warm or melted. Also, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help them hold their shape better.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-free diets while still maintaining flavor and texture.

Conclusion

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. They are not just cookies; they’re an expression of warmth and love, suitable for any gathering or simply enjoyed with a glass of milk. Whether you choose to keep them classic or put a twist on the recipe, you’ll always find joy in their easy preparation and satisfying taste.

The next time you’re in need of a quick and delightful treat, remember this recipe. It’s not only sweet but a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life come from the three simplest ingredients. So go ahead, bake a batch, and let the sweet aroma envelop your home. Happy baking!