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Soft & Chewy Vanilla Sugar Cookies Everyone Will Love


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  • Author: Penny Smith
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

Description

These soft and chewy vanilla sugar cookies are a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With their buttery flavor, delicate sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re perfect for sharing with family or enjoying alongside a cozy cup of tea. Simple to make and loved by all ages, this recipe captures the joy of homemade baking with pure vanilla flavor in every bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons milk (optional, for extra softness)

  • Additional granulated sugar for rolling (optional)


Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

  • Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy.

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

  • If the dough feels dry, add milk one tablespoon at a time until soft and easy to roll.

  • Scoop 1½ tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. For extra sweetness, roll each ball in granulated sugar before baking.

  • Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

  • Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.

  • Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Do not overbake; the cookies should look slightly underdone when removed from the oven.

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

  • To freeze, place cooled cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

  • For a flavor twist, add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or substitute ½ teaspoon of almond extract for part of the vanilla.

  • If your dough feels too soft, chill it for 20–30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes