No-Butter Sugar Cookies

Name: No-Butter Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, don’t you think? These No-Butter Sugar Cookies are not just simple; they are a delightful treat that brings comfort, joy, and a sprinkle of sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or just indulging in a little self-care, these cookies are sure to win hearts and satisfy cravings without the need for butter.

Why Make This Recipe

Healthier Option: By eliminating butter and using vegetable oil instead, these cookies provide a lighter alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip these up. The straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for everyone.
Versatile Delight: Perfect for any occasion, these cookies can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with sprinkles, icing, or even chocolate chips.

Simple Way to Prepare No-Butter Sugar Cookies

Baking these No-Butter Sugar Cookies is a breeze! The steps are designed to guide both novices and experienced bakers alike. Let’s get started on crafting these scrumptious treats that are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to make these delightful cookies:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they are about 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Keeping No-Butter Sugar Cookies Fresh

Storing your cookies is important to maintain their taste and texture. Here’s how you can do it:

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for 7-10 days at 40°F.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Ensure they are in a freezer-safe bag and separated with parchment to prevent sticking.

Best Ways to Serve No-Butter Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies are incredibly versatile. Here are several serving suggestions to elevate the experience:

Classic Approach: Serve the cookies plain, perhaps with a glass of milk or your favorite plant-based alternative.
Creative Toppings: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate or white chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Sprinkle Joy: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking for a festive look — great for kids’ parties or celebrations.
Sandwich Delights: Create cookie sandwiches by filling them with cream cheese frosting or your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert.

There’s no limit on how you can present these treats. Their simplicity allows for your personal touches to shine.

Tips to Make No-Butter Sugar Cookies

To ensure your cookie-making journey is a success, consider these helpful tips:

Make sure to measure your flour accurately to avoid dry cookies.
For extra flavor, add zest from citrus fruits like lemon or orange to the dough.
Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for diverse flavor profiles.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize or innovate, here are a couple of ideas:

Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and ensure that your milk alternative is dairy-free.

Feel free to get creative! The possibilities with these cookies are endless.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, bake the cookies and freeze them for later enjoyment.

Q: Can I use different types of oil?
A: Yes! While vegetable oil works best for this recipe, you could also use canola or melted coconut oil, giving a different flavor and texture.

Q: How do I make them softer?
A: To achieve softer cookies, aim to bake them just until the edges are golden and the center is slightly underbaked. This will result in chewy, delectable bites.

Additional Tips:

If you prefer a crunchier texture, leave them in the oven for a moment longer.
Experiment with adding spices; a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely warmth.

Conclusion

Baking No-Butter Sugar Cookies offers an excellent opportunity for creativity, nostalgia, and comfort all wrapped in one delicious package. These cookies are reminiscent of family gatherings, festive occasions, and just about any happy moment, providing a tender, chewy bite without the heaviness of traditional recipes. The simplicity of the ingredients means there’s room for everyone—whether you’re health-conscious, following a vegan diet, or simply craving a sweet treat.

It’s easy to see that this recipe is a must-have in your baking repertoire. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked No-Butter Sugar Cookies fill your home. Every bite will take you back to cherished moments, leaving a smile on your face and joy in your heart!