Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a truly delightful treat that melts in your mouth, you’re in for a real pleasure with this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between tender, buttery softness and just the right amount of sweetness, making them irresistible for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive gathering, these cookies will quickly become your go-to recipe, thanks to their delicate texture and simple, reliable ingredients. Let me share with you how easy it is to whip up a batch of these scrumptious Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe delights!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that perfect cookie texture and flavor. From the creamy richness of butter and cream cheese to the subtle lift from baking powder and soda, these essentials come together to create something magical.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted: Makes the cookies wonderfully soft and buttery without any extra saltiness.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb texture in the cookie.
• 2 ounces cream cheese: Gives the cookies a moist, tender bite and just a hint of tang.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavor that’s essential for sugar cookies.
• 2 eggs: Provide structure and richness to the dough while keeping it soft.
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that creates cookie shape and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise just enough for that perfect soft texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to create a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup white granulated sugar (or holiday sprinkles): Perfect for rolling the dough balls, adding a little crunch and sparkle on top.

How to Make Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking, giving them that pristine, smooth bottom you want for every batch of the Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, beat the melted butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese together. Take your time and mix well for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the creamy base that lends softness and moisture to your cookies.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Eggs

Next, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to infuse that classic and inviting sugar cookie flavor. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual incorporation helps the eggs blend evenly, contributing to the tender texture you love.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to slowly mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Adding it gradually prevents the dough from becoming too dense and ensures a uniform soft cookie every time you bake this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Step 5: Shape and Coat the Dough Balls

With your hands or a cookie scoop, create 1-inch balls of dough. Roll them in white granulated sugar or festive holiday sprinkles if you’re looking to add some seasonal charm. This coating adds a delightful crunch and eye-catching sparkle to each cookie.

Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place your dough balls about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Giving them enough room ensures they don’t spread into each other, helping each cookie bake perfectly round and soft—true to the spirit of this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe.

Step 7: Add a Final Sprinkle

For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, sprinkle a bit more sugar or sprinkles right on top of each cookie before they go into the oven. It’s that little finishing touch that makes these cookies stand out.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 8 to 9 minutes. You’re aiming for the edges to just begin to brown. Eight minutes was perfect for my oven, giving that tender inside with a slightly crisp edge. Keep a close eye so they don’t overbake, as these cookies shine brightest when soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them firm up just a bit without losing their softness. Afterward, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, and get ready to savor every tender, buttery bite of the Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe.

How to Serve Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Soft sugar cookies are lovely on their own, but you can elevate your presentation with a touch of creativity. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate adds elegance and extra flavor. Seasonal sprinkles or edible glitter also brighten up the cookies, making them festive and fun.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of drinks and desserts. Think classic: a cold glass of milk or a cup of warm tea or coffee. For an indulgent twist, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The soft texture complements creaminess and freshness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe on a pretty platter with fresh mint or edible flowers for a stunning display at parties. You can also sandwich them with homemade jam or chocolate spread for a delightful twist. Packaging them in decorative tins makes them an adorable gift that everyone will appreciate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. Adding a slice of bread to the container helps maintain moisture, ensuring your cookies stay as tender as when they first came out of the oven. They’re best enjoyed within 3 to 5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze both the dough balls and baked cookies. For dough, shape and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag—ready to bake whenever a craving hits. Baked cookies freeze well too; just thaw them at room temperature before serving to restore their soft texture.

Reheating

If your cookies need a little revival, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them in a low oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for a few minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked softness and warmth, making each bite just as delightful as the first.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese that isn’t melted for the Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Yes, you can use softened cream cheese instead of melted. Just make sure it’s room temperature so it blends smoothly with the butter and sugar. This will still help keep your cookies tender and moist.

Why do these cookies stay soft instead of crunchy?

The combination of melted butter and cream cheese, along with the right balance of baking powder and soda, creates a tender crumb that keeps the cookies soft. Baking them just until the edges brown, but not longer, is key to preserving their soft texture.

Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add lemon zest, almond extract, or even mini chocolate chips. Just be mindful that certain additions may change the texture slightly, so adjust baking times accordingly if needed.

How thick should I make the cookie dough balls?

The recipe calls for 1-inch balls, which bake evenly and spread just enough to become perfectly soft cookies. Larger dough balls will take longer to bake, so watch closely if you decide to make them bigger.

Is it okay to use holiday sprinkles instead of sugar?

Yes, holiday sprinkles add a festive touch without compromising texture. They add a bit of crunch and color, making your Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe extra cheerful for celebrations.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Soft Sugar Cookies Recipe a try because once you experience that perfect bite of soft, buttery goodness with a sweet sparkle on top, you’ll understand exactly why it’s become such a beloved favorite. It’s simple to make, endlessly versatile, and sure to bring smiles to any table—your new favorite cookie awaits!

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