Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies (with a Snickerdoodle Twist!)

There’s something truly magical about a perfect sugar cookie—golden edges, a soft, chewy center, and that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. Whether you love them plain or want to add a little spice with a Snickerdoodle twist, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love These Sugar Cookies

• Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything in your pantry!
• Perfectly Soft & Chewy: The combination of butter, cornstarch, and sugar gives these cookies the ultimate texture.
• Versatile Recipe: Enjoy classic sugar cookies or add cinnamon for a Snickerdoodle variation.
• No Chill Time Required: You can go from mixing to baking in just minutes!

The best part? This recipe is beginner-friendly and easy to customize!

The Taste: Sweet, Buttery, and Oh-So Delicious

These sugar cookies have a rich buttery flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. The outside has a slight crisp, while the inside stays soft and chewy. If you go for the Snickerdoodle twist, you’ll get an extra layer of warmth from the cinnamon-sugar coating—pure comfort in every bite!

Ingredients for the Best Sugar Cookies

To make these soft and chewy cookies, you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/4 cups sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Extra sugar for rolling

Snickerdoodle Twist (Optional)

• 1 tbsp cinnamon (to mix into the dough)
• 1/4 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon (for rolling)

Tools You’ll Need

• Electric mixer (stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

How to Make Sugar Cookies (Step-by-Step)

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is key for soft cookies!

Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. Then, beat in the egg until fully incorporated.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

If the dough feels too sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour.

3. Roll the Dough

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Coat each dough ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheet, leaving some space between them.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this is perfect! They will continue to set as they cool.

5. Optional: Add the Snickerdoodle Twist

If you want a Snickerdoodle-style cookie, mix 1 tbsp cinnamon into the dough before rolling. Then, instead of plain sugar, roll the dough balls in a cinnamon-sugar mixture (1/4 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon) before baking.

The result? A cozy, cinnamon-kissed version of these classic sugar cookies!

What to Serve with Sugar Cookies

• A cold glass of milk (the classic pairing!)
• The Best Starbucks-Inspired Iced Chai Latte Hack – Perfect for a warm, spiced drink to go with your cookies!
• Vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert
• Fruit jam or lemon curd for an extra burst of flavor

Tips for the Best Sugar Cookies

• Use room temperature butter – This helps create a light and fluffy dough.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft.
• Bake until just golden – Overbaking will make them crunchy instead of chewy.
• Let them cool on the baking sheet – The residual heat will finish baking them to perfection.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing the Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking as directed.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. If it gets too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling.

2. Why do my cookies turn out hard?

Overbaking is the most common reason. Take them out when the edges are just golden and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.

3. Can I make these without a mixer?

Absolutely! You can use a whisk and a spatula, but be sure to cream the butter and sugar really well.

4. Can I add mix-ins?

Yes! Try adding white chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or even sprinkles for extra fun.

Final Thoughts: A Cookie for Every Occasion!

Whether you love a classic sugar cookie or prefer the warm cinnamon twist of a Snickerdoodle, this recipe is a must-try. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for sharing!

📌 Tried this recipe? Snap a photo and share it on Pinterest! I’d love to see your creations.

Looking for more amazing recipes? Check these out:

• Soft and Chewy Monster Cookies – A fun, colorful treat packed with oats, peanut butter, and chocolate!
• Crispy Homemade Chicken Taquitos – A savory snack to balance out all the sweetness.
• The Best Starbucks-Inspired Iced Chai Latte Hack – Because cookies and chai are a match made in heaven!

Now, go whip up a batch of these cookies—you won’t regret it! 🍪✨

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