{3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

Quick and easy sugar cookies made with just three pantry ingredients—no eggs required! These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only simple to whip up, but they also deliver a delightful buttery flavor that everyone will love. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With only three ingredients, you can have delicious cookies ready in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: These cookies can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with sprinkles for any occasion.
• No Eggs Needed: Perfect for those who may have dietary restrictions or don’t want to deal with eggs.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add vanilla or other flavors to personalize your batch.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the right balance of crunchy edges and soft centers with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything on hand ensures you won’t miss a step.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowls
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar easy and quick, ensuring a well-mixed dough.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cookie texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delightful cookies:

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
• Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)

How to Make {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and 2/3 cup sugar. Mix until well combined; the mixture will be slightly gritty.

Step 3: Add Flour and Vanilla

Add in the flour. Mix until fully incorporated. If you’re using vanilla extract, blend it in at this stage for added flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands.

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Flatten the Dough Balls

Flatten each dough ball slightly using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass. If desired, add sprinkles on top and press lightly so they stick. Aim for about 3/16-inch thickness.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 14-16 minutes, or until edges are slightly golden.

Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying

Remove from the oven and allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your delicious treats!

How to Serve {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a sweet treat, here are some fun serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with milk enhances their buttery flavor. The creaminess balances the sweetness perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in colorful cellophane bags tied with ribbon. They make for charming and delicious party favors!

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruit or other desserts for an appealing dessert spread.

With Ice Cream

• Sandwich two cookies around a scoop of your favorite ice cream for an indulgent treat everyone will love.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Decorate the cookies with icing or sprinkles to match holiday themes. They add a festive touch to any celebration!

In Lunch Boxes

• Include these cookies in your child’s lunch box as a sweet surprise. They’re easy to pack and make lunchtime fun!

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How to Perfect {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

To ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, leading to a smoother dough.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much, which can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time. Remove them when they are slightly golden for a chewier texture.
• Chill the Dough: If time permits, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add different extracts like almond or lemon zest for unique variations on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some great ideas:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the rich flavor of the cookies.
2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy accompaniment that contrasts nicely with the cookie’s texture.
3. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries dipped in chocolate creates an elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with sugar cookies.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sugary treats, making them even more enjoyable.
5. Coffee or Tea: Serving these cookies alongside coffee or tea enhances their flavor, creating a comforting snack experience.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Offer small cupcakes in various flavors for an extra sweet treat that complements sugar cookies well.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar where guests can top their ice cream with these cookies as crumbles!
8. Hot Chocolate Station: Create a cozy drink station with hot chocolate where guests can enjoy dipping their sugar cookies!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be delightful, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much flour: This can make your cookies dry. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Not mixing enough: Ensure the butter and sugar blend well. A gritty texture is normal, but the dough should be cohesive.
• Overbaking: Watch your cookies closely in the last few minutes. They should be lightly golden on the edges.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting cookies rest on the baking sheet allows them to firm up. Don’t rush this step!
• Not flattening the dough balls: Flattening helps them bake evenly. Use the bottom of a glass for uniform thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Freezing {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covered, to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh for about one week when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I add flavors to {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can try adding almond extract or lemon zest for unique flavor variations.

What can I use instead of butter?

You may substitute coconut oil or margarine, but this may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Excessive spreading can occur if the dough isn’t chilled or if too much sugar is used. Ensure proper measurements and chilling time.

Are these cookies suitable for decorating?

Yes! These sugar cookies provide a great base for decorating with icing or sprinkles.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only simple to make but also deliciously versatile. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings like sprinkles or chocolate chips. Whether for a party or just a sweet treat at home, these cookies are sure to please!