Why do my sugar cookies spread too much?

If your sugar cookies spread too much, the butter was likely too soft or melted before baking. Chill your dough for 30 minutes and make sure baking sheets are cool before adding new dough.

How can I make sugar cookies soft instead of crispy?

To keep vanilla sugar cookies soft, slightly underbake them and add an extra egg yolk for richness. Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I freeze sugar cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze sugar cookie dough for up to 3 months. Roll into balls or discs, wrap tightly, and bake directly from frozen by adding one or two minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best vanilla to use for sugar cookies?

Pure vanilla extract provides the most balanced flavor, but vanilla bean paste or real vanilla pods add deeper aroma and speckled appearance.

Vanilla Sugar Cookies – 7 Irresistibly Soft & Sweet Holiday Favorites

Description

Soft, buttery, and delicately sweet, these vanilla sugar cookies are a timeless classic perfect for holidays or everyday baking. They have crisp edges, chewy centers, and the comforting aroma of pure vanilla in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Extra sugar for rolling (optional)

Cook Mode Keep your screen awake while you cook

Instructions

Cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until combined.
Scoop or roll dough into balls; chill if needed for shape.
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Bake cookies 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a rack.

Notes

Chill dough for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm.
For softer cookies, underbake slightly and store with a slice of bread.
Add a touch of lemon zest or almond extract for variation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg