Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies

Name: Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp baking powder; 2 tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ tsp salt

Published: November 28, 2025

by Sarah Conley

Why You'll Love This Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies

This incredible Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies:

All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of your cookies; sift it for a lighter texture.
Granulated Sugar: This sweet ingredient helps achieve that crispy edge while keeping the center soft.
Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s at room temperature; nobody likes cold butter trying to join the party.
Eggs: Use large eggs for consistency; they help bind everything together.
Baking Powder: This little leavening agent makes your cookies rise to fluffy perfection.
Vanilla Extract: Go for pure vanilla extract if you want those rich flavors to shine.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the sweet flavors and balances them perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). As the oven warms up, it’s like giving your cookies a warm hug before they embark on their golden journey.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until light and fluffy—this is where magic begins! A good mix will create an airy texture that dances on your taste buds.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Crack in those large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Now splash in that glorious vanilla extract—because we all know it’s what dreams are made of!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing gently until just combined—don’t over-mix; we want our cookies tender!

Step 5: Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop dollops of dough onto lined baking sheets. Give each cookie some space because they’ll spread out as they bake! Optionally sprinkle with extra sugar for sparkle.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pop those trays into the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; nobody wants burnt cookies ruining our sweet plans! Transfer to wire racks to cool fully.

For an extra special touch, drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies or sprinkle with colorful sprinkles because why not?

Now go ahead—grab yourself a glass of milk (or coffee if it’s one of those days), take a bite of these classic delights, and let nostalgia wash over you like a warm fuzzy blanket!

You Must Know About Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies

This showstopping Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

First, gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the butter and sugar until creamy, then add vanilla and eggs. Gradually incorporate flour and baking powder for a smooth batter. Scoop onto baking sheets and bake until golden.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative with your Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies! Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract, or toss in some chocolate chips, sprinkles, or dried fruit for a fun twist. You can even sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for that sweet-salty combo.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat them, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them up in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies

This professional-quality Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sometimes I whip up these cookies just to see my friends’ eyes light up when they take a bite; their compliments make all the flour-covered chaos worth it!

FAQs

What is Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies?

Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies are delightful, buttery treats that feature a simple combination of sugar, butter, flour, and vanilla extract. These cookies are known for their tender texture and sweet flavor, making them a favorite for many occasions. Often enjoyed during holidays or as everyday snacks, they can be customized with icing or sprinkles. The beauty of Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies lies in their versatility; you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or seasonal themes.

How do I store Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies?

To maintain the freshness of your Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method preserves their flavor and texture for up to three months.

Can I decorate Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! Decorating Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies is one of the most enjoyable aspects of baking them. You can use royal icing, fondant, or even simple powdered sugar glaze to add color and flair. Sprinkles, edible glitter, or colored sugars can enhance the visual appeal even more. Let your creativity shine through by customizing these cookies for holidays or special events!

What makes Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies special?

Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies stand out due to their rich vanilla flavor and soft texture. Unlike other cookie varieties that may be dense or overly sweet, these cookies strike a perfect balance between sweetness and buttery goodness. Their simplicity allows them to be paired effortlessly with coffee or milk. Additionally, they serve as an excellent base for creative decorations, making them suitable for both casual snacking and festive celebrations.

Conclusion

Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy to bakers and cookie lovers alike. With their simple ingredients and delightful flavors, they offer endless possibilities for customization and enjoyment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Remember to follow proper storage techniques to keep your Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies fresh and tasty for days!

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📖 Recipe Card