Classic Vanilla-Almond Sugar Cookies

The ultimate sugar cookie with razor-sharp edges, soft centers, and that irresistible bakery flavor. This is the exact recipe professionals use for cookies that hold their shape and stay fresh for weeks.

Why This Recipe Works

No chilling needed – Ready to bake immediately
Zero spread – Holds intricate designs perfectly
82% butterfat butter – The bakery secret for rich flavor & structure
Cold eggs – Prevents over-creaming (key for no spread)
Almond extract – Adds depth without overpowering

Cookie Ingredients

• 1 lb (4 sticks) European-style butter (82% fat, cold but pliable)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (cold from fridge)
• 1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or pure extract)
• 2 tsp almond extract
• 6 cups all-purpose flour (780g by weight)
• 1 tsp baking powder

Professional Icing Ingredients

• 2 lbs powdered sugar (sifted twice)
• 3 tbsp meringue powder
• 1 tsp cream of tartar
• 1 tbsp clear vanilla
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 10-14 tbsp warm water (adjust for humidity)

step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough (Bakery Technique)

1. Cube cold butter into 1″ pieces. Beat with sugar on medium-low until just combined (2 min). Do not cream until fluffy – this prevents spread!
2. Add cold eggs one at a time, then extracts. Mix until incorporated (1 min).
3. Whisk flour + baking powder. Add in 3 batches on low speed until dough just comes together.

2. Roll & Cut (Like a Pro)

4. Roll 1/4″ thick between parchment sheets (no flour needed).
5. Freeze cutouts 5 min before baking for laser-sharp edges.

3. Bake Perfectly

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) on parchment-lined sheets:
   • 9-10 min (1-2″ cookies)
   • 11-12 min (3-4″ cookies)
7. Cookies are done when edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked.

4. Make the Icing (Decorator’s Secret)

8. Sift dry ingredients together (powdered sugar, meringue powder, cream of tartar).
9. Mix in extracts + 10 tbsp water on low for 1 min, then medium for 3 min.
10. Adjust to 15-second consistency: When drizzled, lines should disappear in 15 sec.

Pro Tips from Bakery Pros

Butter temp is critical: Should dent slightly when pressed but still feel cool
Humidity adjustment: Add 1 tbsp less water in summer, 1 tbsp more in winter
For glossy icing: Replace 2 tbsp water with light corn syrup
Freeze beautifully: Baked cookies last 3 months; icing lasts 2 weeks refrigerated

More Easy TikTok Recipes to Try:

• 4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
• Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
• TikTok Baked Feta Pasta
• TikTok Potato Bake

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