These 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies are super easy and tasty! All you need is sugar, butter, and flour. They bake up soft and sweet, perfect for a snack or dessert!
Honestly, I can’t resist the smell of these cookies baking. It’s like a warm hug for your kitchen! 😊 I love how quickly they come together—just mix, scoop, and bake!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the cookies, giving them structure. If you’re gluten-free, try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend. It works surprisingly well!
Granulated sugar: Sugar adds sweetness and helps with texture. You can use brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor, or use coconut sugar for a healthier twist. Just remember it may change the color a bit!
Unsalted butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies. If you’re dairy-free, you can swap it with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative; just make sure it’s softened.
Sprinkles: While optional, they add a fun touch. Feel free to use any sprinkles you have on hand, or leave them off for a simple look. I’ve even used chocolate chips sometimes—they’re a delicious surprise!
How Do I Ensure My Cookies Are Perfectly Soft and Chewy?
The key to soft, chewy sugar cookies is in how you prepare the dough and bake them. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your butter is soft but not melted. It should be at room temperature so that it mixes well with sugar.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding flour. Mix just until combined for a tender cookie.
- Roll the dough gently and don’t flatten them too much; they will puff up during baking.
- Keep an eye on them toward the end of baking time. They should be just slightly golden around the edges.
Following these tips should help you get wonderfully soft and delicious cookies every time!
3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to enjoy some delicious cookies! Plus, they cool in just a few minutes, ready for munching.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives it enough time to get nice and hot while you prepare the cookie dough. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick later—it’s an easy cleanup!
2. Mix Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or a sturdy spoon to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important because it helps your cookies stay soft!
3. Add Flour:
Now, gradually mix in the flour. You can do this in batches, stirring until the dough forms and all the flour is combined. Don’t overwork it; just mix until it’s soft and smooth!
4. Shape the Dough:
Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on top. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes—stars, flowers, hearts, you name it!
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Place the cut-out cookies onto your lined baking sheet, giving them a little space between each one. This helps them spread without sticking together.
6. Add Some Color:
If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some colorful nonpareils or any sprinkles you like on top of each cookie. Gently press them into the dough so they stick. This step is optional, but it sure makes them look pretty!
7. Bake the Cookies:
Slide them into the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remove them once the edges start to turn a light golden brown. They will continue baking a bit after you take them out, so don’t overdo it!
8. Cool and Enjoy:
Take the cookies out of the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, grab a cookie (or two!) and enjoy your delicious, buttery sugar cookies with a nice glass of milk!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter! Just make sure it’s softened and at room temperature, similar to butter, to ensure the right texture in your cookies.
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour while mixing until it reaches a workable consistency. You can also chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they cool completely before freezing!
Can I Add Flavorings to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vanilla extract, almond extract, or even lemon zest for extra flavor. Just a teaspoon or two will elevate the taste without changing the dough’s consistency.
