4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These 4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are a simple and delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With a crisp edge and soft center, they come together quickly using just a handful of basic pantry staples.
Ingredients
- 1 cup softened salted butter
- ¾ cups granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Step 3: Gradually mix the flour into the butter and sugar mixture until just combined and a dough forms.
- Step 4: Scoop the dough into 2 tablespoon-sized portions using a medium cookie scoop, then roll each portion into a ball.
- Step 5: If desired, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets and gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
- Step 6: Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Variations
- For a twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for extra flavor.
- Use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to control the saltiness.
- Roll the dough balls in colored sugar to make festive cookies for holidays.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker, chewier cookies.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in a low oven or microwave to regain some softness if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter provides better flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch. Expect a slightly different taste and texture.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Cookies spread if the dough is too warm or if the butter is too soft. Chill the dough before baking and avoid overmixing the flour to prevent excess spreading.
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4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 18–20 cookies 1x
Description
These classic 4 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are delightfully simple to make with just butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. Soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened, they are perfect for any occasion and can be quickly prepared for a delicious treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup softened salted butter
- ¾ cups granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside to ensure your cookies bake evenly and do not stick.
- Cream: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened salted butter and ¾ cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the vanilla extract and mix to combine well.
- Stir: Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the butter and sugar mixture, stirring just until combined and a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Scoop: Using a medium cookie scoop or spoon, portion out approximately 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Roll each portion into a ball to prepare for baking.
- Bake: Optional step: Roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar for a sparkly finish. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them apart. Slightly flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and just turning golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a crisper cookie, bake closer to 12 minutes; for softer centers, bake closer to 10 minutes.
- You can substitute unsalted butter but be sure to add a pinch of salt to balance flavors.
- Rolling the dough balls in sugar gives the cookies a nice sparkle and subtle extra sweetness.
- Make sure butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: 4 ingredient sugar cookies, easy sugar cookies, classic sugar cookies, simple cookie recipe, buttery cookies
