Perfectly Simple and Delicious: Basic Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies are a timeless classic, beloved by all for their simple yet irresistible flavor. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a special occasion, or just because, these Basic Sugar Cookies are sure to be a hit. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies that are perfect for decorating or enjoying as-is. Join us as we explore the magic of sugar cookies and learn how to create your own batch from scratch!
Ingredients:
Refrigerated:
- 2 Large eggs
Baking & Spices:
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 3 cups Self-rising flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 cup White sugar
Dairy:
- 1 cup Butter, softened
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the self-rising flour and salt.
- Mix the Dough:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the Dough (Optional):
- For best results, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to roll out.
- Roll and Cut the Cookies:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to your desired thickness, usually around 1/4 inch. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as sugar cookies can quickly go from golden to brown.
- Cool and Decorate:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or other toppings as desired.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once decorated, serve your Basic Sugar Cookies and enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps ensure a smooth and even dough.
- Customize with Flavors: Experiment with different flavorings such as almond extract, lemon zest, or cinnamon to add a unique twist to your sugar cookies.
- Decorating Ideas: Get creative with your cookie decorations! Use colored icing, edible glitter, or festive sprinkles to add flair to your cookies for special occasions.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute almond flour for the self-rising flour to reduce the carb content.
- Use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the white sugar.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to taste, as keto-friendly sweeteners can vary in sweetness.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour to reduce the carb content while maintaining a good texture.
- Replace the white sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
- Be mindful of portion sizes to stay within your daily carb limit while enjoying these low-carb sugar cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling and cutting the cookies.
2. How long do sugar cookies last? Sugar cookies will stay fresh for up to one week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze baked cookies for longer storage.
3. Can I omit the vanilla extract? While vanilla extract adds flavor to the cookies, you can omit it if necessary. The cookies will still be delicious, but they may lack some of the depth of flavor that the vanilla provides.
4. Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter is preferred for its flavor, you can use margarine as a substitute if needed. Just be aware that the flavor and texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
Basic Sugar Cookies are a timeless classic that everyone loves. With their buttery flavor and tender texture, they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday snacking. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, you can enjoy these delicious cookies while still sticking to your dietary preferences. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up a batch of these delightful treats. Your friends and family will thank you!
