Get ready to transform your baking game with these irresistibly soft, cloud-like sugar cookies that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe! Imagine biting into a pillowy, tender cookie with a perfectly sweet vanilla frosting that literally makes your taste buds dance with joy. These aren't just any ordinary cookies - they're a homemade slice of pure comfort that bridges childhood memories and gourmet baking in one delightful treat. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies are about to become your new go-to dessert that promises to impress at every single gathering!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Frosting: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain a cakey texture.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- For frosting, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if too thick.
- Once cookies are completely cool, spread or pipe frosting onto cookies. Allow frosting to set for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Room temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and create a better cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dry and wet ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cookies instead of soft, cakey ones.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform cookies that bake evenly, invest in a cookie scoop. This ensures consistent size and perfect presentation.
- Watch Baking Time Closely: These cookies should be just barely golden at the edges. Remove them when they look slightly underdone, as they'll continue cooking on the hot baking sheet.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is key! Let cookies cool entirely to prevent frosting from melting and ensure a clean, beautiful finish.
- Customize Your Frosting: Experiment with food coloring or add a drop of almond extract for a unique twist on the classic vanilla frosting.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain their soft, cakey texture for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
