These fluffy sugar cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. They have a soft and tender texture with a slightly crispy edge, making them irresistible to cookie lovers of all ages.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly, achieving the perfect balance of a crispy edge and a soft, fluffy center. While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This preparation step is crucial as it prevents the cookies from sticking to the sheets, making for an effortless transfer from the sheet to your cooling rack.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the butter, creating a lighter, more airy dough. The creamed mixture should have a pale yellow color and a smooth, creamy texture.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients into the creamed butter and sugar until they are fully integrated and the mixture is smooth. The egg adds structure and moisture, while the vanilla enhances the flavor profile of the cookies, giving them that classic sugar cookie taste.
Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, and baking powder – into the wet mixture. It’s best to do this in batches to avoid overmixing, which can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and a soft dough forms. This gentle mixing preserves the light, fluffy texture of the dough, ensuring your cookies stay tender.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. For an extra touch of sweetness and a slightly crunchy exterior, roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar. This coating will caramelize slightly during baking, adding a delightful texture contrast to the soft cookie interior.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Look for edges that are lightly golden – this indicates the cookies are done. The centers should still look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool, ensuring a perfectly chewy bite.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This initial cooling period helps them set and makes them easier to transfer. After a few minutes, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling method prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy, maintaining their delightful texture. Enjoy your fluffy sugar cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea, sharing them with friends and family or savoring them as a special treat for yourself.
