Chewy Sugar Cookies
These Chewy Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Soft and sweet, they are a holiday favorite that come together with minimal effort. With a simple no-chill dough, you can whip these cookies up in no time. Whether for Christmas gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies will surely delight everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This chewy sugar cookie recipe requires no chilling, making it perfect for last-minute baking.
- Soft Texture: The combination of butter and sugar creates cookies that are irresistibly soft and chewy.
- Versatile Flavor: With options like almond extract and frosting, you can customize these cookies to fit any taste preference.
- Fun to Decorate: Kids love rolling the dough in sugar, making this a fun family activity during the holidays.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or an everyday snack, these cookies fit the bill perfectly.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or baking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light texture for your cookies.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients; choose one that’s large enough to prevent spills.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking; using parchment paper ensures easy removal of cookies without sticking.
Ingredients
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a Christmas cookie staple! This no-chill dough sugar cookie recipe is full of simple ingredients and comes together quickly!
For the Dough
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
For Dipping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or coat it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use your stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Beat until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.
Step 5: Form Cookie Balls
Roll the dough into balls that are about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for added sweetness.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the sugared dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes or until set.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them as is or feel free to frost them with your favorite icing!
How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies
Chewy sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or just enjoying them with a warm beverage, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- Pair your chewy sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that everyone loves.
As an Ice Cream Sandwich
- Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two chewy sugar cookies for a delicious treat that’s perfect for summer.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a delightful pick-me-up.
Decorated with Frosting
- Top your chewy sugar cookies with colorful frosting to add a festive touch, especially during the holidays.
Served Warm
- Serve your cookies warm right out of the oven for an irresistible experience that enhances their chewiness.
Gift-Wrapped for Friends
- Package them in decorative boxes and gift them to friends or family as a sweet surprise during special occasions.
How to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies
To achieve the perfect chewy sugar cookies, follow these simple tips. Each step can make a big difference in texture and flavor.
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Use room temperature butter: This helps create the right texture by allowing the butter to incorporate air into the dough, making it light and fluffy.
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Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to extra gluten development.
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Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
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Chill the dough if desired: While this recipe does not require chilling, letting it rest for 30 minutes can enhance flavors and improve texture.
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Watch baking time closely: Bake until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Best Side Dishes for Chewy Sugar Cookies
Chewy sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some tasty options to consider:
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda to provide a savory contrast.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip your chewy sugar cookies in melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Nut Mix: A blend of nuts adds crunch and healthy fats, making it a great snack alongside sweet treats.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light and satisfying side.
- Hot Chocolate: Serve with rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for cozy evenings.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Create your own sundaes using ice cream, toppings, and chewy sugar cookies on the side.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: The flavors of pumpkin spice perfectly complement the sweetness of chewy sugar cookies during fall.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making chewy sugar cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your results.
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour will make your cookies dry. Use the spoon and level method for precise measurement.
- Skipping the butter softening step: Cold butter does not cream well, which affects the cookie’s fluffiness. Always use softened butter for a light texture.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Not letting cookies cool properly: Cooling on the baking sheet can cause them to continue cooking. Transfer them to a wire rack after a few minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
- For best results, freeze cookies without frosting.
Reheating Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds; keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat for a minute or two for a warm treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about chewy sugar cookies that can help you master this recipe.
What makes chewy sugar cookies chewy?
Chewy sugar cookies get their texture from the right balance of fat and sugar, as well as proper mixing techniques.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, using brown sugar will give your cookies a chewier texture and richer flavor due to its moisture content.
How do I make my chewy sugar cookies thicker?
To create thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking or add slightly more flour to your mixture.
Can I decorate my chewy sugar cookies?
Absolutely! Decorating with icing or sprinkles adds a fun touch to these delicious treats.
How long do chewy sugar cookies last?
When stored properly, chewy sugar cookies can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
These chewy sugar cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain or customize them with various frostings and mix-ins. Whether you’re preparing for Christmas or just looking for a sweet treat, these cookies will surely bring joy and warmth to any occasion!
Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful charm of Chewy Sugar Cookies, a beloved treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their soft, pillowy texture and delightful sweetness, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, or simply enjoying at home with a warm cup of coffee. This easy no-chill dough recipe allows you to whip up a batch in no time, making them ideal for last-minute baking. Customize your cookies with almond extract or festive frosting for an extra special touch. Whether enjoyed plain or decorated, these chewy sugar cookies will surely be a hit among family and friends!
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and then roll each ball in granulated sugar.
- Place the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 23g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
