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Sugar Coated Sugar Cookies Recipe

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4.1 from 7 reviews

These classic sugar-coated sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly crisp on the edges. Made in one bowl and rolled in colorful sugar for a sweet, festive finish, they are perfect for any occasion or holiday treat. Simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and a short bake time make this an easy recipe to whip up for cookie lovers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Decoration

  • Colored sugar, for rolling

Instructions

  1. Prepare colored sugar: Place the colored sugar in small separate bowls, making it ready for coating the cookie dough balls.
  2. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking during baking.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure even mixing.
  4. Add egg and vanilla: Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, beating until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
  5. Mix dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  6. Form and coat dough balls: Using a scoop, form the dough into 2-tablespoon sized balls. Roll each ball in the prepared colored sugar, coating it completely. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  7. Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges and tops of the cookies are just set but not browned. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes.
  8. Cool completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before storing. Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure the egg is at room temperature before adding for best texture.
  • Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
  • Spacing cookies properly on the baking sheet prevents them from merging while baking.
  • For variation, use different colored sugars or sprinkles for decoration.
  • Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.