4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These 4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are delightfully simple and delicious. With just a few basic pantry staples, you can whip up tender, buttery cookies perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened salted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
- Step 3: Gradually mix the all-purpose flour into the butter and sugar mixture until just combined and a dough forms.
- Step 4: Using a medium cookie scoop, portion the dough into 2 tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each ball into a smooth round.
- Step 5: If desired, roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets and flatten each slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and turn slightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
- Use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to control saltiness more precisely.
- Substitute half the granulated sugar for brown sugar for a richer flavor and softer texture.
- Roll the dough balls in colored sugar or sprinkles for festive occasions.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, freeze baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave before serving if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted or unsalted butter?
Both work well, but using salted butter is recommended for this recipe to enhance the flavor. If using unsalted butter, add a small pinch of salt to the dough.
How do I keep cookies soft?
Be careful not to overbake the cookies; remove them when edges are just set and slightly golden. Storing cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread can also help maintain softness.
Print4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
