You asked for the ultimate sugar cookie recipe that is soft, chewy, and holds its shape perfectly for cutting and decorating. Jacob perfected this recipe to be your go-to for any holiday or celebration. It bakes up beautifully every time.
Author:Jacob Carmichael
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 40 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield:About 3 dozen cookies
Category:Cookies/Dessert
Method:Baking/Cutout
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
All-purpose flour: 3 cups
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup (2 sticks)
Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 cups
Large eggs: 2
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough in half, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and flatten into a disc. Chill for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely set. For a softer cookie, err on the side of underbaking slightly.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Notes
Chilling the dough is crucial for cookies that hold their shape well during cutting and baking.
For the softest texture, avoid overbaking. The cookies should look slightly pale when you remove them.
If you are decorating with royal icing, allow the cookies to cool completely, preferably for several hours or overnight, before applying icing.