If you’re anything like me, there’s just something so satisfying about biting into soft, sweet treats that boast just the right amount of chewiness and flavor. That’s exactly why this Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe has earned a permanent spot in my recipe collection. These cookies are tender on the inside, with a delightfully slightly crisp edge, and deliver a classic sugary sweetness that never gets old. Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon snack or a festive gathering, these cookies bring both warmth and smiles to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking perfect chewy sugar cookies. Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating the texture, flavor, and color that make these cookies truly irresistible.
- Butter (1 cup, softened): This adds richness and keeps the cookies tender and chewy.
- Granulated sugar (1 1/4 cups): Sweetens the dough and helps create a slightly crisp exterior.
- Egg (1): Binds the ingredients while contributing to the cookie’s soft texture.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that makes the cookies taste homemade.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides structure to the dough.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the cookies rise gently, keeping them soft.
- Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Works with baking soda to achieve the perfect tender crumb.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by heating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and promotes even baking, helping you get those perfect chewy sugar cookies every time.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This creaming step incorporates air, setting the stage for a soft, tender cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. These ingredients are essential for adding moisture and flavor, ensuring your cookies are decadent and delicious.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, then mix gently until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to tougher cookies, so keep it light to maintain that soft chewiness.
Step 5: Form and Coat
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each one in granulated sugar. This sugar coating creates that signature crackly, sparkling crust that’s so inviting.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake your cookies for 10 to 11 minutes, just until they’re set but still soft at the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies firm up while staying chewy inside.
How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Pop a dusting of powdered sugar or sprinkle some colored sugar crystals for a festive touch. A simple glaze of lemon or vanilla icing can also add a lovely tang and extra sweetness that complements the chewiness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee for a comforting snack. They also make a wonderful companion to fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, line a serving tray with colorful parchment paper and stack the cookies in a pyramid. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies together with your favorite jam or frosting for an extra-special treat. These presentation ideas can turn simple chewy sugar cookies into a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover chewy sugar cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically stay soft and delicious for up to one week, making them perfect for enjoying over several days without losing their charm.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed at room temperature when ready to eat.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked softness, pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. This step reawakens their chewy texture and fresh-baked aroma, making each bite as delightful as the first.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, butter gives the best flavor and texture in this chewy sugar cookies recipe. Margarine may alter the chewiness and taste slightly.
What makes these cookies chewy instead of crunchy?
The balance of softened butter, the right amount of sugar, egg, and baking agents creates a tender crumb with a soft center, resulting in that perfect chewiness rather than a crisp crunch.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or even sprinkles can be folded into the dough for added texture and flavor without compromising the chewy goodness.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough briefly if needed. Also, don’t over-grease your baking sheet, and keep the cookie balls spaced well apart.
Are these cookies suitable for decorating?
Yes, these cookies have a smooth surface and hold their shape well, making them ideal for decorating with royal icing, sprinkles, or any fun toppings you like.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade cookie that’s chewy, soft, and full of classic sweetness. This Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe is straightforward, dependable, and guaranteed to bring joy whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself. Give it a try, and I promise these cookies might just become your new favorite go-to treat!
Print
Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These chewy sugar cookies are soft, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients and baked to perfection, they offer a delightful texture with a slightly crisp edge and a tender center, ideal for enjoying with a glass of milk or your favorite tea.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, mixing well until fully combined for a smooth and flavorful dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can toughen the cookies.
- Shape and Sugar Coat: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and generously coat each ball in granulated sugar. Arrange them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and chewy.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set without breaking.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the proper cookie texture.
- Do not overmix the dough once flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- Rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking adds a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
