There’s something magical about a freshly baked batch of chewy sugar cookies that brings comfort and joy. With their soft, buttery centers and a perfectly crispy edge, these cookies are a delightful treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. The warm aroma of vanilla and almond extract wafting through your kitchen will instantly create a cozy atmosphere, making this recipe ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a comforting afternoon snack. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of milk, these sweet delights will surely bring smiles to faces young and old. Let’s dive into making these delicious chewy sugar cookies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened: This forms the base of your cookies, giving them a rich, buttery flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the chewy texture.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together, providing moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a sweet aroma.
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional): Offers a subtle, nutty flavor that complements the vanilla.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the cookies, giving them their chewiness.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Works alongside baking soda to create a light and tender texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for dipping: Provides a sweet, crispy exterior.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or coating it with baking spray.

2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 1 minute.

3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.

4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the reserved 1/4 cup of granulated sugar to coat.

6. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake for 10-11 minutes, or until the cookies have set and are lightly golden around the edges.

8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chewy sugar cookies!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 11 minutes
• Total Time: 26 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 130 per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a lighter texture.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: Freeze raw cookie dough balls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to three months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
• Variations: For a different flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest for a citrusy twist, or mix in chocolate chips for chocolate chip sugar cookies.

FAQ Section

1. Why are my sugar cookies not chewy?
   A common reason is overmixing the dough, which can lead to a denser texture. Be sure to mix just until combined.

2. Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
   Yes, margarine can be used, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.

3. What can I do if I don’t have almond extract?
   You can simply omit it, or substitute it with additional vanilla extract for a more vanilla-forward flavor.

4. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
   The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

5. Can I add nuts to the dough?
   Absolutely! Chopped nuts can be a great addition, just be sure to mix them in gently with the flour.

6. How can I make the cookies softer?
   To achieve a softer cookie, try reducing the baking time slightly and ensure they are not overbaked.

People Also Ask (PAA) Expansion

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
   Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor and chewier texture.

2. How do I make chewy sugar cookies?
   Follow the recipe closely, avoid overmixing, and do not overbake the cookies for the best chewy texture.

3. Do I need to chill the dough?
   Chilling the dough is not necessary for this recipe but can help if your kitchen is warm.

4. Can I decorate these sugar cookies?
   Yes, you can frost or decorate them after they cool completely for a fun twist.

5. How long do sugar cookies last?
   When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can last about one week.

6. Is it okay to make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, or freeze it for longer storage.

Conclusion

Baking these chewy sugar cookies is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about filling your home with warmth and love. I encourage you to try this simple yet delightful recipe, and I’m sure you will enjoy every bite. Feel free to share your baking adventures and the joy these cookies bring to your loved ones. Happy baking!

Chewy Sugar Cookies

Delightful chewy sugar cookies featuring soft buttery centers and crispy edges, perfect for any sweet tooth and ideal for gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 11 minutes mins

Total Time 26 minutes mins

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 130

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Main ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened Forms the base of the cookies for a rich flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and impacts chewiness.
• 1 large egg Binds the ingredients, adding moisture.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional) Offers a subtle nutty flavor.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Main structure for the cookies.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda Leavening agent for slight rise.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder Helps create a light texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar for dipping Provides crispy exterior.

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Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or baking spray.
2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in the reserved 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
6. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-11 minutes, until cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 130kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 50mgSugar: 10g

Notes

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Raw cookie dough balls can be frozen and stored for up to three months.

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