Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies – Easy Homemade Holiday Treats

If you love classic cookies that are soft, chewy, and full of buttery vanilla flavor, these Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a must-try. With no chilling required, this easy recipe delivers cookies that are tender on the inside, lightly golden on the outside, and perfectly sweet with every bite. Ideal for holidays, cookie swaps, or just a cozy baking session at home, these sugar cookies are simple enough for beginners yet impressively delicious. Each bite gives you rich, buttery flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the slight crisp on the edges contrasts beautifully with the soft center. Whether you’re making them for a festive occasion or everyday enjoyment, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your cookie repertoire.

Why You’ll Love These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Easy to Make: No dough chilling required, simple mixing method.
• Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy centers with slightly crisp edges.
• Rich and Buttery: Creamy butter and sugar create the perfect flavor balance.
• Vanilla-Forward: Warm, inviting vanilla aroma in every bite.
• Family-Friendly: Great for kids, adults, and cookie swaps alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Freezes beautifully for easy future enjoyment.

Ingredients Breakdown

Yield: 40 cookies

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure for the cookies.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Helps cookies rise slightly.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Contributes to chewiness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and tender texture.
• 1 ¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar – Sweetens and creates a slightly crisp edge.
• 1 large egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
• 1 egg yolk – Enhances richness and chewiness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Adds warm, aromatic flavor.

For Rolling

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar – Optional, for coating dough balls before baking for extra sweetness and sparkle.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowl
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Whisk or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Optional: Cooling racks for perfect cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat butter and 1 ¼ cups sugar on low speed, then medium-high until creamy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Mix in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract on medium speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Dough will be firm.
6. Form cookie dough balls: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Optional: Roll each ball in ¼ cup granulated sugar for a sparkly finish. Place 3 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
7. Bake cookies: One pan at a time, bake for 8–10 minutes until tops are almost set and bottoms are light golden brown. Avoid overbaking for maximum chewiness.
8. Cool and serve: Cookies may still be slightly puffy when removed; they flatten as they cool. Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips & Variations

• Flour Measurement: Use the spoon-and-level method to prevent dense cookies.
• Flavor Variations: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or cinnamon for unique flavor profiles.
• Decorating: Roll in colored sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for festive occasions.
• Make-Ahead: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes.

Flavor Profile

These sugar cookies are soft, tender, and buttery with a warm, inviting vanilla flavor. The edges are lightly crisp while the centers remain chewy, providing a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The subtle sweetness from sugar enhances the buttery richness, and rolling in extra sugar adds a light crunch and sparkle. Perfectly balanced, these cookies satisfy every craving for a classic, homemade treat.

Nutritional Overview (Estimated per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	87 kcal
Protein	1 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	4 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Fiber	0.2 g
Sugar	6 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Early: Dough can be shaped and rolled ahead of time.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the additional salt in the recipe.

2. How do I get the softest cookies?
Do not overbake; remove when tops are just set.

3. Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes, adjust baking time slightly for size differences.

4. Can I flavor these cookies differently?
Yes, add extracts like almond or lemon, or spices like cinnamon.

5. How do I store them?
Room temperature in an airtight container for 5 days or freeze for long-term storage.

Cooking Timeline

Step	Time
Prep Time	20 mins
Cook Time	8 mins
Total Time	28 mins
Yield	40 cookies

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm for a soft, gooey experience.
• Decorate with sprinkles for holidays or special occasions.
• Pair with tea or coffee for a classic treat.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies: Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.
2. Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to dough.
3. Spiced Holiday Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg.
4. Decorated Cookies: Roll in colored sugar or frost with royal icing for festive occasions.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Butter: Softened but slightly cool butter ensures a tender, chewy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Key to warm, inviting flavor. Use pure extract for best results.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Chill baking sheets slightly between batches for consistent results.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for even baking.
• Avoid overmixing dough after adding flour to prevent tough cookies.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: 5 days in an airtight container.
• Freezer: Up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes.
• Do Not Overbake: Maintain soft, chewy texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Cookie)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	87 kcal
Protein	1 g
Carbohydrates	12 g
Fat	4 g
Saturated Fat	2 g
Fiber	0.2 g
Sugar	6 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly

Expanded Conclusion

These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are a classic, easy-to-make treat with buttery, vanilla-rich flavor and perfectly soft centers. Ideal for holiday baking, family gatherings, or everyday indulgence, they’re simple, crowd-pleasing, and freeze beautifully for future enjoyment. Save this recipe, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the comfort of warm, homemade cookies anytime. Once you try them, these sugar cookies will become a go-to recipe you’ll bake again and again.

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