Are you ready to bake up a batch of cookies that taste like warm hugs and childhood memories? Then get ready to dive into Grandma's secret sugar cookie recipe! These aren't just any cookies; they're melt-in-your-mouth delicious, perfectly crisp on the edges, and soft in the center – the epitome of homemade goodness. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, guaranteeing a delightful treat for everyone. It’s a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful homemade cooking project for a cozy evening.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Decoration (Optional):
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- Sprinkles
- Food coloring (gel or liquid)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: Let's Get Baking!
Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is easily done with an electric mixer, but you can also achieve it with a good amount of elbow grease and a sturdy hand mixer.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets. For an extra touch, sprinkle with granulated sugar before baking.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens can vary.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can decorate them with sprinkles, icing, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. Let your creativity run wild!
Tips and Variations for Delicious Results
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a tender cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill Time Matters: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing spreading. Don't skip this step!
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist. You can also incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruit into the dough.
- Royal Icing: For a more elegant look, try using royal icing for decorating.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate)
This will vary depending on size and added decorations. This is an approximation based on a 2-inch cookie:
- Calories: 80-100
- Fat: 4-5g
- Sugar: 8-10g
These Grandma's Sugar Cookies are a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes that are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the baking process and the sweet reward! They are also fantastic healthy meals if you use whole wheat flour and control the portion size. This is a recipe that can bring joy to your kitchen and create lasting memories. Enjoy!