These 3-ingredient sugar cookies are super easy to whip up! With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can have sweet treats ready in no time. They are soft, buttery, and oh-so-delicious!
You can dress them up with some sprinkles or just enjoy them plain. Honestly, I can’t resist snacking on them right off the cooling rack! 🍪
The best part is that they come together quickly, making them perfect for when I need a little sugar boost. Trust me, these are a must-try on your baking list!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. You can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter for a vegan option, which works well to keep the cookies moist!
Granulated Sugar: Regular sugar is perfect here since it helps create a nice, crisp edge. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute like erythritol for a low-calorie version.
All-Purpose Flour: While all-purpose flour is reliable, you can use a gluten-free blend if you need a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for the best texture.
Sprinkles: Adding sprinkles is purely for fun! You can also use chocolate chips or nuts if you prefer a little extra flavor and texture.
How Do I Make Sure My Cookies Are Soft and Chewy?
To achieve soft and chewy cookies, it’s crucial to avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour. Here’s how you can ensure they turn out great:
- Start with softened butter to ensure everything incorporates well. Don’t microwave the butter; let it sit at room temperature instead.
- When mixing in the flour, stop as soon as it combines. A few flour streaks are okay; the dough should feel soft, not tough.
- Don’t overbake! Check the cookies at the 12-minute mark. They should look set but soft in the center.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they’ll continue cooking a bit off the heat.
Following these simple tips will help you make perfect sugar cookies that are soft and delicious every time!
3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Sprinkles (optional, for decoration)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 12-15 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes to cool. In total, you can have these yummy cookies ready in about 30-40 minutes. It’s a quick and sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make sure the cookies don’t stick and come off easily once baked!
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use a wooden spoon or a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s important for this step because it helps to incorporate air for fluffy cookies!
3. Make the Dough:
Slowly add the all-purpose flour to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir gently until a soft dough forms. Don’t worry if it’s slightly crumbly; it should hold together when squeezed. If it seems too dry, you can add a tiny bit of milk to help bind it together.
4. Shape the Cookies:
Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, allowing about 2 inches of space between them.
5. Flatten and Decorate:
Gently flatten each ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass, creating a nice round cookie shape. If you want, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top and press them lightly into the dough so they stick!
6. Bake the Cookies:
Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the edges to be just barely golden, and the center should still look soft. They may appear slightly cracked on top when done.
7. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious cookies! If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container for freshness!
These cookies are sure to be a hit, simple and sweet!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for the unsalted butter! Just ensure it’s soft, as this will help with the creaming process. Your cookies might have a slightly different flavor but will still be delicious.
What If My Dough Is Too Crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly and not holding together, you can add a teaspoon of milk or water to help bind it. Mix it in gradually until you achieve a dough that holds together when pressed.
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can store them in the fridge or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!