Warm, freshly baked Chewy Sugar Cookies have a way of captivating the senses. With their irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen, these cookies enchant every cookie lover with their soft, pillowy texture and just the right amount of sweetness. When you bite into one, you’ll discover a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfectly complemented by a light crisp on the outside. Ideal for cozy family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Join me in creating this delectable treat that is sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, providing structure and a delightful crumb.
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch: This ingredient helps to create a tender texture by preventing gluten formation.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Baking soda is a leavening agent that provides lift and gives cookies a light texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor, balancing the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Butter adds richness and flavor, while the softness ensures easy mixing.
• 1 1/3 cups white sugar: The primary sweetener for the cookies, contributing to both flavor and texture.
• 1/3 cup for rolling: Extra sugar for rolling adds a sweet, crunchy exterior.
• 1 large egg: The egg binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 large egg yolk: Adding an extra yolk increases chewiness and richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a warm, comforting flavor that complements the sugar.
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional): Almond extract enhances flavor complexity with a subtle nutty note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 1/4 cups of white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter mixture. Beat until all the ingredients are well combined.
5. Gradually add the prepared flour mixture to the butter mixture in two parts, mixing until just incorporated to avoid overworking the dough.
6. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon in size, and then coat each ball in the reserved sugar for a sweet exterior.
7. Place the dough balls onto the prepared cookie sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake one sheet at a time in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are set but the cookies are still soft to the touch.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cookie

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal mixing. Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized cookies.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Variations: For added flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or sprinkles before rolling the dough balls.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, using brown sugar will add moisture and a deeper flavor to the cookies.

2. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading.

3. Is almond extract necessary in the recipe?
No, the almond extract is optional but adds a lovely flavor. Feel free to omit it if you prefer.

4. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to mix in batches if your mixing bowl is small.

5. How can I ensure my cookies are chewy?
Don’t overbake the cookies. They should look slightly underbaked when you pull them from the oven.

6. What can I do with leftover cookies?
You can crumble them over ice cream or use them in a dessert trifle.

People Also Ask (PAA) Expansion

1. What makes sugar cookies chewy?
Chewy sugar cookies are made with a higher ratio of fat and moisture from eggs and butter, along with cornstarch to tenderize.

2. Can I substitute other flours?
You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary based on the blend used.

3. How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for a slight set on the tops, they should not be overly browned.

4. Should I refrigerate the cookie dough before baking?
Refrigeration is not necessary but can help firm up the dough if it’s too soft to handle.

5. How many calories are in a chewy sugar cookie?
Each cookie has approximately 120 calories, though this can vary based on ingredient brands.

6. Can I decorate chewy sugar cookies?
Yes, once cooled, you can decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugars if desired.

Conclusion

Embrace the joy of baking with these delightful Chewy Sugar Cookies! They are not just a treat; they are a heartfelt reminder of cozy kitchens and warm gatherings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share these sweet creations with your loved ones. Enjoy every bite and the smiles they bring!