Description
Sweet vanilla sugar cookies bring delightful simplicity to classic baking. Crisp edges and buttery centers invite home bakers to savor each delectable bite with pure comfort and joy.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
Binding and Leavening Ingredients:
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp milk
Instructions
- Cream softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, creating a smooth, pale mixture that incorporates air for a tender cookie texture.
- Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to ensure a uniform consistency and rich aromatic base.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, creating a delicate dry ingredient mixture.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, mixing until just combined to prevent overworking the dough and maintaining a soft, crumbly texture.
- Add vanilla bean paste for an intense, sophisticated vanilla flavor, gently stirring to distribute evenly.
- Knead the dough lightly, forming a cohesive ball that’s smooth but not tough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic film and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow ingredients to meld and dough to firm up.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters, transferring delicately to prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are gently golden, avoiding over-browning.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before serving or decorating.
Notes
- Enhance flavor by using high-quality vanilla extract or scraping fresh vanilla beans for an intense, authentic taste profile.
- Chill dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and ensure crisp, clean-edged cookies during baking.
- Adjust flour slightly for gluten-free diets by substituting with almond or coconut flour, which adds subtle nutty undertones.
- Control sweetness by reducing sugar or using alternative sweeteners like monk fruit for a lower-calorie version.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg