These Easy Soft Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet and simple. With their tender, chewy texture and just the right amount of sweetness, they’re super comforting and satisfying. The basic ingredients like butter, sugar, and vanilla blend together to make a cookie that’s soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the edges—exactly how I like my sugar cookies.
I love making this recipe because it’s really straightforward, requiring minimal fuss but delivering a big cookie smile every time. I often sneak a little extra vanilla or try rolling the dough in colored sugar before baking to add a fun sparkle. Plus, these cookies hold their softness well, so it’s great for baking ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
My favorite way to enjoy these cookies is fresh out of the oven with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They’re also great for decorating with icing and sprinkles if you’re feeling crafty or need a last-minute gift. Whenever I make these, they quickly disappear, and everyone always asks for the recipe—so it’s become a little family favorite around here!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. Make sure it’s softened but not melted for the best texture.
Sour Cream or Yogurt: This adds moisture and helps keep the cookies soft. If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk work well too.
Vanilla and Almond Extracts: Vanilla is a must for flavor. Almond extract is optional but adds a lovely warm note—feel free to skip if you don’t have it.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: Both are used to get a light, tender crumb. Don’t swap baking soda for baking powder unless the ratio is adjusted—both have different strengths.
Sugar: Granulated sugar creates that classic sugar cookie taste and slight crunch on the edges. You can substitute half with brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor and extra softness.
How Can You Keep Sugar Cookies Soft and Tender?
The secret to soft sugar cookies lies in a few key techniques:
- Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly. Beat them together until light and fluffy, which traps air and helps a soft texture.
- Add sour cream or yogurt. This adds moisture that keeps the cookies tender even after baking.
- Don’t overmix after adding flour. Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Bake at the right temperature and time. Bake just until edges turn lightly golden. You want to remove them while centers are still soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet first. Letting them rest for a few minutes allows the cookies to firm up gently without drying out.
Following these steps will help your sugar cookies stay soft and chewy every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – makes creaming butter and sugar quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to keep cookies soft.
- Baking sheet – a flat cookie sheet helps cookies bake evenly.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – for evenly sized cookie dough balls.
- Wire rack – to cool cookies without sogginess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add lemon or orange zest for a bright citrus twist that freshens up the classic sweet taste.
- Mix in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a melty, sweet surprise in each bite.
- Fold in some ground cinnamon or nutmeg to add warm, cozy spice flavors—great for fall or winter baking.
- Top the cookies with a thin layer of cream cheese frosting or colored icing to dress them up for celebrations.
Easy Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sour cream or plain yogurt (for softness)
- Colored sugar and rainbow sprinkles for decoration
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 8 to 10 minutes of baking per batch. Cooling takes an additional 5 minutes on the baking sheet and some extra time if you want the cookies completely cool before serving. Expect the whole process to take roughly 30-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mix aside for later use.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer or by hand until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This helps give your cookies their soft texture.
4. Add Egg and Flavor:
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you’re using it) until everything is well blended.
5. Combine Ingredients:
Add the dry flour mixture gradually to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined – try not to overmix to keep your cookies soft.
6. Add Sour Cream or Yogurt:
Stir in 3 to 4 tablespoons of sour cream or plain yogurt to make the dough nice and soft.
7. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop the dough by tablespoonfuls, then roll each portion into a ball. For a little extra sparkle, roll the dough balls in colored sugar.
8. Prepare for Baking:
Place the cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You can gently flatten each ball if you like and decorate with rainbow sprinkles for a festive touch.
9. Bake!
Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch closely and take them out when the edges just start to turn golden, but the centers still look soft.
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, enjoy your deliciously soft, colorful sugar cookies!
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream and will keep the cookies soft and moist. Just use the same amount called for in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Sugar Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To keep them soft longer, add a slice of bread to the container—it helps maintain moisture!
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely! Scoop and roll the dough into balls, then freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, no need to thaw—just add a minute or two to the baking time.
What’s the Best Way to Decorate These Cookies?
Rolling the cookie dough balls in colored sugar before baking gives a festive sparkle. After baking and cooling, you can also decorate with icing and sprinkles for holidays or special occasions.
