Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

If you’ve ever bitten into a cookie that’s perfectly soft in the center with just the right amount of chewiness, you know it’s pure comfort in dessert form. These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from weekday treats to holiday baking. Unlike crisp or crunchy cookies, these stay tender and pliable, making them ideal for decorating or simply enjoying straight from the oven. With a buttery base, a hint of vanilla, and a delicate balance of sweetness, every bite melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing treats for a party, or just satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies are straightforward to make, forgiving enough for beginner bakers, and utterly irresistible.

What sets this recipe apart is its texture. The combination of light browning around the edges and a soft, chewy interior creates that perfect sugar cookie experience everyone loves. Plus, they’re versatile—easy to adapt with sprinkles, icing, or even a little citrus zest for a fresh twist. With a recipe like this in your repertoire, you’ll have go-to cookies that are reliable, delicious, and sure to impress any guest or family member.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• All-purpose flour – 2 ¾ cups: Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
• Baking soda – 1 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise slightly and spread evenly.
• Baking powder – ½ teaspoon: Ensures a light, soft texture.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter – 1 cup (2 sticks), softened: Adds richness and a smooth texture.
• Granulated sugar – 1 ½ cups: Sweetens the dough and contributes to slight crisp edges.
• Large egg – 1: Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
• Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons: Infuses a warm, classic flavor.
• Optional add-ins: Sprinkles, colored sugar, or citrus zest can add flair and extra flavor.

These ingredients are pantry staples for most home bakers, and the ratios ensure cookies that stay soft for days. Softened butter is key—too cold and the dough will be hard to work with; too melted and the cookies may spread too thin. The combination of baking soda and baking powder helps create a chewy texture without making the cookies dense.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking. Soft cookies need gentle handling, so don’t skip this step.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Mixing these first ensures even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial; properly creamed butter incorporates air, helping the cookies rise slightly while staying soft.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. The dough will be creamy and slightly thick. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make cookies tough. Fold in any optional add-ins like sprinkles or zest by hand.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. For a fun effect, lightly roll tops in colored sugar before baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are set and just starting to turn golden. Centers may appear slightly underbaked—that’s perfect for chewy cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them firm up slightly without losing their soft, chewy texture.

Tip: For extra soft cookies, slightly under bake by a minute. They will continue to cook slightly on the hot baking sheet.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle with colored sugar, sanding sugar, or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. You can also drizzle a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cup of tea, or coffee. For a dessert platter, serve alongside brownies, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or fruit tarts.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack cookies in mason jars or tie with twine for a charming gift. Decorate with royal icing for holidays or special occasions. Layer cookies between wax paper in a decorative tin to create a beautiful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Cookie dough can be frozen before baking—scoop onto a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for 2-3 months.

Reheating

For freshly baked warmth, microwave a cookie for 10-15 seconds or place in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-5 minutes. This restores softness and enhances flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes! Brown sugar adds extra moisture and chewiness, giving cookies a slightly caramelized flavor. Replace half or all of the granulated sugar for a richer taste.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Q: How do I make cookies thicker and chewier?
Chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking. This slows spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

Q: Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Yes! Add ½–1 cup of chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture. Fold gently to avoid overmixing.

Q: My cookies spread too much. What went wrong?
Butter may have been too soft or the oven temperature too low. Chill dough slightly and ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C).

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are simple to make yet impressively delicious. Their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with your favorite beverage. With just a few pantry staples, you can create cookies that are soft, sweet, and utterly irresistible—sure to become a staple in your baking rotation. Don’t wait; preheat your oven and start baking today!

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