There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a cookie that’s both soft and chewy, sending sweet waves of nostalgia through every bite. Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are the dessert equivalent of a warm hug—delicately crisp on the edges and marvelously tender in the center. Did you know that the classic sugar cookie recipe dates back to the 1700s and was actually favored by early American settlers for its simplicity and irresistible flavor? That’s just one fun tidbit you’ll love sharing as you whip up a batch for your own family.
If you’ve ever made my popular Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll know how much I adore easy, crowd-pleasing treats. Today’s recipe is just as simple and rewarding, making it ideal for weeknight baking with little helpers in tow or impressing guests at a last-minute gathering. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies—let’s get started!
What is Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies?
So, what’s in a name—Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies? Well, pretty much everything you need to know! These cookies are like little pillows of happiness, boasting that perfect middle ground between bendable softness and melt-in-your-mouth chewiness. Ever wondered how a cookie manages to be both soft and chewy? That’s the baking world’s best-kept secret (until now)! Just remember the old saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”—and trust me, a batch of these cookies will win over anyone, anywhere. Ready to become everyone’s favorite cookie baker? Let’s do this!
Why You’ll Love This
The biggest highlight of Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies lies in their addictive texture and classic flavor. Each bite reveals a delicate crackle on the outside, while the inside stays soft and tender, thanks to just the right balance of butter, sugar, and flour. Not only do these cookies taste better than any store-bought brand, but making them at home also saves you money and allows you to customize with fun mix-ins like sprinkles, citrus zest, or even your favorite extracts.
If you loved my Snickerdoodle Cookie recipe, you’ll adore how this one keeps things simple yet delivers maximum flavor—plus, sugar cookies are the perfect blank slate for creativity. Whether you’re baking with kids or need a quick treat for a party, this will become a go-to recipe. Curious to see just how easy and delicious homemade cookies can be? Grab your apron and give it a try!
How to Make
Quick Overview
What makes Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies so irresistible is their total simplicity. With no complicated steps or specialty equipment required, this recipe promises a batch of dreamy cookies in under 30 minutes. The combination of pantry staples means you can satisfy your cookie cravings anytime, and the addition of extra vanilla and a splash of milk ensures a perfectly rich, soft, and chewy texture every time.
Ingredients
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 tablespoons milk
Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Step-by-Step
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll each into a ball. Gently roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to coat.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden but the centers still look soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to Serve Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies With
Sugar cookies are delicious on their own, but they’re also a wonderful canvas for all sorts of tasty partners. Pair your cookies with a cold glass of milk or a hot mug of coffee for the ultimate comfort treat. If you’re making these for a party, serve them alongside a platter of fresh fruit, a simple chocolate fondue, or even a small scoop of vanilla ice cream. For extra pizzazz during the holidays, drizzle with a simple glaze or sandwich two cookies together with a fruity jam. The possibilities are endless!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients—this is key to a soft, tender crumb.
- Use room temperature butter for the creamiest texture; cold butter won’t blend as smoothly with the sugar.
- If you don’t have unsalted butter, use salted and reduce the added salt in the recipe to a pinch.
- Bake until just set for that perfect chewy center; overbaking will make them crispier.
- For fun variations, mix in colored sprinkles, citrus zest, or swap out half the vanilla for almond extract.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are easy to store and the perfect make-ahead treat. Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you need to store them longer, place in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months—just separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking. To refresh cookies, warm them in the microwave for 7-10 seconds or let them thaw at room temperature. If you’d rather freeze the dough, roll it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag and bake as needed, adding 1 to 2 extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Simply cover and refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking, or freeze dough balls to bake fresh cookies on demand.
Why are my sugar cookies coming out hard instead of soft?
Chances are they were baked a bit too long or the oven temperature was too high. Bake just until set and cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can, real butter gives the best flavor and texture. Margarine may make the cookies more spreadable and slightly less rich.
How can I make these cookies dairy free?
Substitute a good quality dairy-free margarine for the butter and use plant-based milk. The results will still be delicious!
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe doesn’t require chilling, but if your dough feels too sticky, a quick 20-minute chill can help make shaping easier.
Conclusion
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are the ultimate classic treat—crisp at the edge, plush in the middle, and packed with buttery sweetness. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a festive party, or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday afternoon, these cookies guarantee smiles all around. With easy-to-follow steps, pantry-friendly ingredients, and endless ways to customize, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite year-round. Try them today, and don’t forget to explore more of our reader-favorite cookie recipes for even more inspiration!
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Whisk
- Spoon
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.75 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
- 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 large Egg
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons Milk
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll each into a ball. Gently roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to coat.
- Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden but the centers still look soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.