If your idea of baking bliss involves buttery melt-in-your-mouth treats and the simple joy of cut-out cookies, you’re in the right place. This recipe for Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies is everything you want from a timeless cookie: crisp-edged yet tender, with a delicate vanilla aroma and perfect chew. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday cookie swap or just want to add a little sweetness to your week, these cookies are a tried-and-true favorite in my kitchen—and I think they’ll become one in yours, too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies starts with just a handful of well-chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, ensuring the cookies hold their shape, taste heavenly, and have that gorgeous golden finish when baked. Here’s what you’ll need, plus why it matters:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cookies, giving them structure and the soft, tender bite we all love.
- Baking powder: A gentle lift for just the right thickness and lightness—no flat cookies here!
- Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness so every bite pops.
- Unsalted butter: Softened, for that rich, creamy, classic base; using unsalted means you control the salt level.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps the cookies bake up with just the right crispness around the edges.
- Large egg: Binds the dough together and adds a little extra richness and structure.
- Vanilla extract: For that signature sugar cookie aroma and warmth—don’t skimp here!
- Almond extract (optional): A tiny splash imparts a bakery-style flavor; totally optional, but highly recommended if you love a hint of almond.
How to Make Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together your flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. It might seem like a small detail, but blending these ahead ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed—no surprise salty or doughy bites later! Set this bowl aside; it’ll join the party soon.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar. You’re aiming for a creamy, fluffy mixture—this usually takes a good 2 to 3 minutes on medium speed. The air you whip in here will help create cookies with a delicate texture and just a hint of chewiness.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Crack in the egg, pour in the vanilla, and add the almond extract if you’re using it. Mix until everything is smooth and beautifully combined. This step builds the foundation of the cookie’s unmistakable flavor and color.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. I like to do this in three parts, mixing on low speed and scraping down the sides as you go. Once all the flour’s in, your dough should come together easily—soft but not sticky. Be careful not to over-mix here for the most tender Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide your dough into two portions, shape each into a flat disc, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Let them chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling isn’t just a “good idea” step—it’s essential for cookies that roll smoothly, hold their shapes during baking, and have neat edges for decorating.
Step 6: Roll, Cut, and Bake
Once chilled, dust your work surface (and rolling pin) lightly with flour. Roll out one dough disc at a time to about 1/4-inch thickness. This is where you get to play: use your favorite cookie cutters to make hearts, stars, or classic rounds. Arrange them on parchment-lined baking sheets with a little space in between. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the edges are ever-so-lightly golden. Let them rest on the sheet for a couple minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Congratulations—the hard part’s over!
Step 7: Decorate and Enjoy
Once cooled, these cookies are ready for icing, sprinkles, or even a simple dusting of sugar. They’re sturdy enough for decorating but soft enough to melt in your mouth—just as Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies should be!
How to Serve Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies
Garnishes
The finishing touches make all the difference! These cookies practically beg for royal icing in cheerful colors, a shower of beautiful sprinkles, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. If you love a bit of sparkle, try sanding sugar for a shimmering effect. Just make sure your cookies are completely cool before decorating so everything sets perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies with mugs of hot cocoa, cold milk, or a rich cup of coffee. They also shine next to a platter of seasonal fruits or make a playful contrast on a holiday dessert board stacked with brownies, candies, and bars. These cookies are a classic for a reason—they fit right in, wherever you serve them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive or personal touch, bundle decorated cookies in clear treat bags tied with ribbon, perfect for party favors or gifts. Stack them in decorative tins lined with parchment for Christmas morning, or even create a cookie bouquet by attaching them to sticks and arranging them in a colorful vase. With Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies, the only limit is your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once the cookies have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay wonderfully fresh and tender for up to a week—just keep them away from strong odors, as they can absorb flavors from the environment. Stack layers between sheets of parchment to help maintain their perfect texture and decorations.
Freezing
Both the unbaked dough and the fully baked Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies freeze beautifully. Wrap dough discs tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil, then pop them into a freezer bag; they’ll keep for up to three months. You can also freeze baked, undecorated cookies the same way. When you’re ready, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bring to room temperature before rolling, baking, or decorating.
Reheating
If you love a just-baked taste, you can refresh plain cookies by warming them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 2–3 minutes. This brings back the aroma and slightly crisp edges without drying them out. For decorated cookies, skip reheating to keep icing and sprinkles intact.
FAQs
Do I really need to chill the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Chilling ensures your Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies keep their shape, hold detailed edges, and bake up with the perfect texture. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread or taste tougher than they should.
Can I double this recipe for a big batch?
Yes, doubling works wonderfully! Just divide the dough into more discs before chilling so it’s easy to manage when rolling out. You might need to bake in batches, but the results will be just as delicious.
How do I prevent my dough from sticking when rolling?
Lightly dust both your work surface and rolling pin with flour, and rotate the dough occasionally. If the dough warms up and gets sticky, pop it back into the fridge for a few minutes before continuing.
What are the best ways to decorate these cookies?
Royal icing is traditional for clean, bright designs, but you can also use a simple glaze, melted chocolate, or a shower of colorful sprinkles. Have fun and let your creativity shine!
Are Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies suitable for making ahead before holidays?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough days in advance, or even bake and freeze the cookies. Decorate them just before serving or gifting for the freshest flavor and prettiest appearance.
Final Thoughts
Baking a batch of Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies is one of those small joys that brings people together, year-round. Whether you’re getting creative with icing or just enjoying them plain with a glass of milk, these cookies deliver all the charm and nostalgia you could want. Give them a try—the smiles they inspire will speak for themselves!
Print
Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies (depending on size and shape)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Classic Rolled Sugar Cookies are a staple for any baker’s recipe collection. With a perfect balance of sweetness and buttery flavor, these cookies are ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday treats.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, mixing until combined.
- Combine the Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until the dough forms. Divide the dough, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.
- Roll and Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F. Roll out dough, cut shapes, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are just golden. Cool on a wire rack before decorating.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for clean-cut shapes and even baking.
- These cookies hold their shape well and are perfect for decorating.
- The dough or baked cookies can be frozen for later use.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
