Easy Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Extra granulated sugar for rolling, optional

Instructions

Follow each step in order. The directions below are written so a beginner can understand what to do, what to look for, and when to move on to the next step.

1. Step 1.Preheat the oven to 375°F and place a rack in the center. Line baking sheets with parchment paper if available; this helps the cookies release cleanly and makes cleanup easier.
2. Step 2.Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a medium bowl. Make sure the baking soda and baking powder are evenly dispersed because small concentrated pockets can create an uneven flavor or rise.
3. Step 3.Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until creamy and noticeably lighter. If using an electric mixer, medium speed for about 2–3 minutes is usually enough; do not worry if the mixture is not perfectly fluffy.
4. Step 4.Add the egg and vanilla and mix until smooth. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl so the egg and vanilla are evenly distributed throughout the butter mixture.
5. Step 5.Add the dry ingredients gradually and mix only until the flour disappears. The dough should be soft and scoopable. Stop mixing immediately once the ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
6. Step 6.Scoop the dough into small, roughly equal portions. Roll each portion gently between your palms to form a ball, then roll lightly in extra granulated sugar if you want a sparkly, crisp exterior.
7. Step 7.Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space for the cookies to spread during baking; overcrowding the tray can cause neighboring cookies to merge.
8. Step 8.Bake one tray at a time for about 8–10 minutes. The edges should be just beginning to turn golden while the centers still look slightly soft. Do not wait for the centers to become fully brown in the oven because they continue setting on the hot tray.
9. Step 9.Remove the cookies and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 3–5 minutes. This short rest lets the centers firm enough to move without breaking.
10. Step 10.Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and cool completely. Serve as-is or decorate with icing once cold. Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container so moisture does not soften their edges too quickly.