Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

why make this recipe

Soft sugar cookies are a classic treat that everyone loves. They are sweet, soft, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are baking for a holiday, a party, or just for fun, these cookies will surely brighten your day. They are easy to make and can be decorated in various ways, making them not only tasty but also visually appealing.

how to make Soft Sugar Cookies

Ingredients :

• 0.333 cup colored decorating sugar
• 0.666 cup shortening
• 0.666 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1.5 cups white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions :

• Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place decorating sugar in a small bowl (or use several colors and separate bowls).
• Beat shortening and butter in the bowl of a stand mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add in the sugar and mix until incorporated, then add the eggs one at a time, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary. Mix in the vanilla extract.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until everything is fully incorporated and the dough comes together.
• Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls. Roll each ball in the colored sugar to coat, then place them 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
• Bake in the preheated oven until light brown on the bottoms, about 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to switch the racks halfway through baking. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool.
• Enjoy!

how to serve Soft Sugar Cookies

Serve these cookies fresh with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage. They can also be enjoyed at room temperature along with coffee or tea. For special events, consider decorating them with icing or sprinkles to add a festive touch.

how to store Soft Sugar Cookies

To keep your soft sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure they cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

tips to make Soft Sugar Cookies

• Use room temperature butter for a smoother dough.
• Don’t overmix the dough; mix just until combined.
• For softer cookies, take them out of the oven a little earlier.
• Experiment with different flavored extracts for a twist, like almond or lemon.

variation

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for different flavors and textures. If you enjoy flavored cookies, try adding citrus zest or spices like cinnamon for a unique taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but the taste and texture might be slightly different.

2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for light brown bottoms, and the tops should look set but might still be soft. They will continue to harden as they cool.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time, keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.

Enjoy baking these delicious soft sugar cookies with your loved ones!