3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Name: 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups all-purpose flour

When it comes to comforting treats, few things can beat the simple joy of freshly baked sugar cookies. With just three basic ingredients—sugar, butter, and flour—you can whip up a batch of delightful cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these easy sugar cookies will surely become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Versatile: You can customize these cookies easily with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or icing for a festive touch.
Pure Delight: The buttery flavor and delightful texture make them a delightful addition to any dessert table.

How to Make Easy Sugar Cookies

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Sugar Cookies

Baking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but not with this simple recipe. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to create your own batch of soft, buttery sugar cookies that will melt in your mouth.

Preheat Your Oven: Before you start mixing, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This will ensure that your cookies will bake perfectly when you’re ready to pop them in.
Cream Together Sugar and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine one cup of granulated sugar with one cup of softened unsalted butter. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, cream the two ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps achieve that lovely soft texture in your baked cookies.
Add Flour Gradually: Once your sugar and butter are well combined, add in two cups of all-purpose flour gradually. It’s essential to mix this in slowly to avoid flour flying everywhere. Continue to mix until a soft dough begins to form. The dough should not be sticky but should hold together well when you roll it into balls.
Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls—about one to two tablespoons each. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Flatten the Dough Balls: To give the cookies their classic shape, flatten each dough ball slightly with the bottom of a glass. This not only creates a nice surface for baking but also ensures even cooking.
Bake Them: Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for edges that are lightly golden. The center will still be soft, which is just how you want them!
Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Let them cool completely, though it’s perfectly fine to sneak a warm cookie or two while they’re still deliciously soft!

Storage Guidance

Best Way to Store Easy Sugar Cookies

Keeping your homemade sugar cookies fresh and delectable is essential, so here are some storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week at 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Make sure to place a layer of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve Easy Sugar Cookies

When it comes to serving these delightful sugar cookies, you have plenty of options:

With Sprinkles: Add a burst of color and fun by decorating your cookies with sprinkles before baking or tapping them into some colorful sprinkles after they’ve cooled.
Dipped in Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and dip one half of each cookie for a decadent touch. Allow to cool, then enjoy the delightful combination.
Sandwiched with Filling: Spread some frosting or a dollop of your favorite jam between two cookies for a delicious sandwich treat.
With a Hot Beverage: Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon snack.

Tips to Make Easy Sugar Cookies

Use room temperature butter for the best creaming results.
Ensure to flour your work surface slightly if rolling out the dough—this prevents sticking.
Experiment with flavored extracts such as vanilla or almond for an added twist.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re feeling creative and want to mix things up with your sugar cookies, here are a couple of variations you might consider:

Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add a tablespoon of lemon zest and a teaspoon of lemon juice into the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Cookies: Mix a tablespoon of ground cinnamon into the sugar before creaming with the butter for a warm, spiced flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use different types of flour?
A: If you want a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture may vary slightly, but the outcome is still delicious.

Q: How do I keep cookies from spreading?

Use cold dough and chill it for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Ensure your oven is preheated adequately before placing the cookies inside.

Nutritional Info

For those looking to gauge the health information of these cookies, here is a rough estimate per cookie (for a batch of about 24 cookies):

Calories: Approximately 130
Total Fat: 7g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
Carbohydrates: 16g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 1g

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sugar cookies may seem straightforward, but there are pitfalls to watch out for:

Overmixing the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
Not Measuring Ingredients Carefully: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Skipping the Chilling Time: If your dough is too warm, the cookies will spread excessively. Give it time in the refrigerator if it’s too soft.

Conclusion

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not just a quick way to satisfy your sweet tooth but are also an invitation to get creative in the kitchen. With their endless possibilities for customization, you’ll find yourself making these cookies again and again. So next time you’re in need of a tasty treat, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and start baking. The delicious aroma and the smiles from family and friends will be well worth your efforts!

From sweet moments with family to joyous celebrations, these cookies are sure to bring a little extra happiness into your life. Enjoy baking and sharing, and most importantly, indulge in the delightful taste of your homemade sugar cookies!