These 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies are super simple and sweet! Just mix together butter, sugar, and flour, then bake until golden. Perfect for when you need a quick treat!
I love how easy these cookies are to whip up! They’re great for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk. Plus, who doesn’t love a soft, sweet cookie? 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the salt content. If you’re dairy-free, you can use vegan butter as a substitute, making the cookies just as delightful!
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives these cookies their sweetness. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar alternative, though it may alter the texture slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour provides structure. For gluten-free cookies, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum for best results.
How Do You Keep the Cookies from Spreading Too Much?
To maintain the shape of your cookies, follow these tips:
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This firms up the butter and helps prevent spreading.
- Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted. Softened butter creams well without collapsing the dough.
- Keep your oven consistent. Make sure it’s properly preheated, as uneven temperatures can lead to uneven baking.
3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. You’ll have delicious cookies ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents sticking!
2. Mix the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, grab that softened butter and the 1 cup of sugar. Beat them together with a mixer until everything is creamy and well combined. You want it to be nice and fluffy!
3. Add the Flour:
Now, slowly add the flour to your butter-sugar mixture. Stir it in until a soft dough forms. Make sure it’s not sticky; it should hold together nicely.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. You want it thick enough to hold its shape but not too thick that it doesn’t cook through.
5. Cut and Place Cookies:
Using your favorite cookie cutters (like star shapes for fun), cut out cookies and place them on the lined baking sheet. Don’t forget to leave a little space between each cookie—they’ll spread a bit while baking!
6. Sprinkle for Festivity:
Sprinkle some extra sugar on top of the cookies or add colorful sprinkles if you’re feeling festive. This makes them look even more delightful!
7. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary a bit!
8. Cool Them Down:
Once done, take the cookies out and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them stay fresh and free from getting soggy.
9. Time to Enjoy!
Now that they’re cooled down, grab a cookie (or two!) and enjoy them with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage. You’ve made some easy and delightful sugar cookies!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can use margarine in place of unsalted butter! Just make sure it’s softened, similar to how you would prepare butter. This will help achieve a creamy texture.
Can I Substitute Whole Wheat Flour for All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! You can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the cookies may be denser. If using whole wheat, consider adding an extra tablespoon or two of sugar to balance the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just place them in a freezer-safe bag and they can last up to three months!
What Should I Do if My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, try adding a little bit more flour—start with a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the right soft but manageable consistency. Chilling the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up.
