Perfect Sugar Cookies
Sweet and buttery sugar cookies with a crisp exterior and tender interior, perfect for any occasion. Their classic flavor and simple ingredients make them a favorite among kids and adults alike. Easy to customize with decorations or enjoy plain for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- Cream butter, shortening, sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Add egg and beat until combined.
- Stir in the flour mixture.
- Blend in milk to form a dough.
- Roll dough into balls and flatten with a glass dipped in water and sugar.
- Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 9 minutes or less.
- Don't overcook the cookies.
Tips & Substitutions
For the perfect sugar cookies, ensure your butter and shortening are at room temperature for easier creaming. If you want a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with additional butter. You can also add a pinch of almond extract for a unique twist. Make sure to flatten the dough balls evenly for consistent baking.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a sprinkle of colored sugar before baking for a festive touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of Elskaffee for a cozy treat. Consider serving them alongside a light dessert like Fruity Walnut Salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Perfect Sugar Cookies contains roughly 135 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use only butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can use only butter for these cookies. This will give them a richer flavor and slightly different texture. Just keep in mind that they may spread a bit more during baking, so you might want to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls. You can also lightly flour your hands and work surface to help manage the stickiness without adding too much flour to the dough.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make your sugar cookies more festive, try adding colored sprinkles or icing on top after baking. You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for holidays or special occasions. Consider pairing them with a creative recipe like Brownies For A Crowd for a delightful dessert spread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).