Sweet treats are always a delight, but when it comes to special occasions, nothing beats the classic charm of sugar cookies. From birthdays to holidays and even just because, these tasty treats are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. And with so many variations out there, you’re bound to find the perfect recipe to fit your taste buds and occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional vanilla flavor or something a little more adventurous like lemon glazed or chocolate dipped, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious sugar cookie recipes that are sure to impress. From classic flavors to creative twists and unique flavor combinations, there’s something for everyone in this collection of sweet treats.
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies Recipe
A timeless favorite, these classic vanilla sugar cookies are a staple of any cookie lover’s collection. With their crispy edges and chewy centers, they’re perfect for dunking in milk or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies: A Bright and Delightful Treat
These tender sugar cookies are infused with the warmth of lemon zest and topped with a tangy glaze, making them perfect for a sweet treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and lemon zest until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing.
Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Sugar Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these tender sugar cookies smothered in a rich, velvety chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Semi-sweet chocolate chips, for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place dipped cookies on parchment paper-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Sugar Cookies
Sweet and spicy, these classic cookies are perfect for any occasion. With the warmth of cinnamon and the comfort of sugar, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
These buttery cookies are infused with the warmth of almonds and topped with a velvety royal icing. Perfect for any occasion, these sweet treats are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 large egg
– Royal icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add sliced almonds and whisk until combined.
4. Beat in the egg. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp meringue powder
– 2 tbsp water
Whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth. Use to decorate cookies once they have cooled completely.
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
A classic favorite, these chewy cookies get their rich flavor from the caramelized butter and subtle sweetness from the sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Optional: chopped nuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the baking soda and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Get ready to delight your senses with the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices in these scrumptious sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Stuffed Sugar Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy sugar cookies filled with a creamy peanut butter surprise.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or a small cookie scoop to create an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill the indentation with about 1/4 teaspoon of peanut butter.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Sugar Cookies
This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea with the sweetness of sugar cookies, creating a unique and refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder (Japanese ceremonial grade)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in vanilla extract and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
Sweet and tangy, these Red Velvet Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. With their subtle red hue and velvety texture, they’re sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red velvet cake mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and red velvet cake mix. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Orange Zest Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these vibrant orange sugar cookies, infused with the warmth of citrus and the sweetness of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and mix until well combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Sugar Cookies
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Sugar Cookies Recipe
Summary: These tender sugar cookies are a classic favorite, elevated by the sweet-tart flavor of raspberry jam and a delicate thumbprint design.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Raspberry jam (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a glass or cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Use your thumb or a small spoon to create a indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Coconut Sugar Cookies
Coconut Sugar Cookies Recipe
These chewy cookies are infused with the sweetness of coconut sugar and the tropical flavor of shredded coconut, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, followed by the shredded coconut.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Sugar Cookies
A classic holiday treat, these gingerbread sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and full of warm spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lavender Honey Sugar Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the subtle sweetness of lavender and the warmth of honey. These tender treats are perfect for a sweet treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp dried lavender buds
– 2 tbsp honey
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in lavender buds and honey until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Funfetti Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your baking with these colorful, sprinkly cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup Funfetti sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in Funfetti sprinkles.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chai Spiced Sugar Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the comforting flavors of chai spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Chai spice blend (or a combination of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and pepper in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chai spice blend.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Strawberry Frosted Sugar Cookies
Sweeten up your day with these scrumptious strawberry frosted sugar cookies, perfect for a quick treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
– Strawberry frosting (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before frosting.
Strawberry Frosting:
Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tbsp strawberry jam and 2 tbsp heavy cream until smooth. Spread or drizzle over cooled cookies. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Glazed Sugar Cookies
Sweet and Crispy Maple Glazed Sugar Cookies Recipe
These tender and crunchy sugar cookies are elevated to a new level with the addition of a rich maple glaze, making them perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Maple glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing.
Maple Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Rich, chewy cookies packed with double the chocolate goodness, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chunks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and dark chocolate chunks.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetness of sugar cookies! This article presents 20 mouth-watering recipes for every occasion. From classic vanilla and lemon glazed to chocolate dipped and cinnamon spiced, there’s a flavor combination to suit your taste buds. Add some excitement with peanut butter stuffed, matcha green tea, or strawberry frosted variations. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because, these sugar cookie recipes are sure to impress friends and family alike. Try one (or two, or three…) today and discover the joy of baking!
