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4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe

4.8 from 118 reviews

These classic 4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are easy to make, using simple pantry staples to create soft, buttery cookies with a delicate vanilla flavor and a crisp sugar-coated exterior. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies bake quickly and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

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Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup softened salted butter
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Cream: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of softened salted butter and ¾ cup granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Stir: Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir with a spatula or mixer on low speed until just combined and a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, which can toughen the cookies.
  4. Scoop: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion the dough into 2 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each portion between your palms to form smooth balls.
  5. Bake: If desired, roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar to add a sweet, sparkling coating. Place the dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm to encourage even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For a crisper cookie, bake a few minutes longer until edges are more golden.
  • If you prefer chewier cookies, reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the edges.
  • Using salted butter adds balanced flavor; if using unsalted, add a pinch of salt to the dough.
  • Rolling the dough in sugar before baking is optional but adds a nice texture and sparkle to the cookies.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: 4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies, easy sugar cookies, vanilla sugar cookies, butter cookies, simple cookies, classic cookies