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Perfect No-Spread Sugar Cookies

no-spread sugar cookies - featured image

A quick and easy sugar cookie recipe that yields cookies that hold their shape perfectly with crisp edges and tender centers, ideal for decorating or enjoying plain.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups (320 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • Optional: sprinkles or colored sugar

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add egg and vanilla: Crack in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth, about 1 minute.
  3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
  4. Mix dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing. If dough is too sticky, add 1 tablespoon more flour.
  5. Chill the dough briefly: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes.
  6. Roll and cut shapes: Lightly flour a clean surface and rolling pin. Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing 1 inch apart.
  7. Add decorations (optional): Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on top before baking.
  8. Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes or until edges just begin to turn golden. Avoid overbaking.
  9. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Use butter softened to room temperature, not melted, to prevent spreading. Chill dough briefly before rolling to help hold shape. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender. Use sharp cookie cutters and press straight down without twisting. Watch bake time carefully to avoid browning.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-spread sugar cookies, sugar cookies, easy sugar cookies, holiday cookies, cookie decorating, crisp edges cookies