There’s a certain magic in the air when you bake a batch of chewy sugar cookies. I remember the first time I tried my hand at these delightful treats, the sweet smell weaving its way through my kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug. There’s something inherently joyful about the simplicity of sugar cookies. They’re not just cookies; they evoke memories of childhood, holidays, and gatherings with family. These melt-in-your-mouth delights are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a springtime tea or just want to indulge in a sweet snack at home.
Reasons to try it
This lovely recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. Why? For starters, it’s unapologetically simple. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up cookies that rival any bakery. These chewy sugar cookies are also kid-approved and make for fantastic baking projects with little hands eager to help. If you’re looking for a cozy treat to share at a family brunch, a festive holiday gathering, or a last-minute snack to bring to a friend’s house, these cookies are perfect.
"These sugar cookies are a game-changer! The perfect chewiness and just the right amount of sweetness. My family can never get enough!"
Preparing Chewy Sugar Cookies
Let’s get right to it! The beauty of baking these cookies lies in their straightforward process. You’ll start with creaming together your butter and sugars, then thoughtfully blend in the eggs and extracts—don’t rush this step, as it’s where that amazing flavor begins to form. Next, the dry ingredients come into play, marrying with the wet to create a wonderfully textured dough. Finally, rolling the scoops in sugar before baking gives those lovely, shimmering tops that are oh-so-tempting.
What you’ll need
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Granulated sugar for rolling
Feel free to swap out the almond extract if you’re not a fan; perhaps a splash of lemon or even a hint of coconut could introduce an intriguing twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step; a properly preheated oven means consistent baking and perfect cookies.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. It’s okay to take your time here, as this aeration helps create that wonderful texture.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The aroma will bring back memories; just wait for the magic!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined—over-mixing can result in tougher cookies.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in granulated sugar. This step really helps those cookies shine and adds a delightful crunch.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; the cookies will continue to cook a bit after you remove them from the oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will make them just the right texture—soft in the middle, slight crispness on the edge.
Best ways to enjoy it
These chewy sugar cookies are truly versatile. Enjoy them on their own, or pair them with a comforting cup of tea or a tall glass of milk for that classic combination. For a whimsical touch, consider adding a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an impromptu dessert sandwich—perfect for warm days! Feel free to sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top just before baking for an enticing sweet-and-salty contrast.
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing these cookies is easy and will help retain their delightful chewiness. Just place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft for several days—if they last that long! If you’ve made a larger batch or want to save some for later, consider freezing the dough before baking. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer it to an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Tips for success
- Use room temperature butter for optimal creaming; it incorporates air better, leading to fluffier cookies.
- Don’t be shy with the mixing process; this is where the flavor deepens, but be careful not to overwork that dough to avoid tough cookies.
- A quick chill in the fridge for 30 minutes can further enhance the chewiness if you have the time. It’s well worth the wait!
Creative twists
Feel like experimenting? You can easily put your spin on this recipe. Add chocolate chips for a delightful combination of gooey and chewy, or try incorporating nuts for added texture. For a festive flair, a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and spice during the holiday season.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for these cookies?
Preparing the dough takes about 15-20 minutes, with another 10-12 minutes for baking.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, I highly recommend sticking to unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
How can I store and freeze my cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze the dough for future use! Just remember to add a minute or two to the baking time if you bake from frozen.
Baking these chewy sugar cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm slice of nostalgia, a moment to cherish with loved ones, and a true testament to the joys of home cooking. Happy baking!
Chewy Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them in granulated sugar.
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.