Chewy sugar cookies are a delightful treat that brings a sweet smile to anyone’s face. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and just the right amount of sweetness make them a favorite for both baking enthusiasts and novice bakers alike. Whether you want a fun dessert for a special event or simply crave a sweet snack at home, chewy sugar cookies are the perfect choice.
Why We Love This Chewy Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies stand out for many reasons. First, they boast a texture that perfectly balances chewy and soft, creating blissful bites with every mouthful. The base enhances their flavor with just the right amount of sweetness, making them an excellent companion to a glass of milk or a cup of tea. Another reason they shine is their flexibility; you can easily add extras like chocolate chips or nuts, tailoring each batch to your taste. Plus, these cookies are easy to make and require common ingredients found in most kitchens. They also store well, allowing you to prepare a batch ahead and enjoy them for days. Ultimately, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a fun baking activity that you can share with family and friends.
Ingredients for Chewy Sugar Cookies
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Directions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the mixture and continue beating until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain the chewy texture.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the sheets for extra sweetness.
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden yet the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies
Chewy sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to elevate your experience. Start with the classic presentation: stack a few cookies on a plate and serve them with cold milk. This combination is not only timeless but also delightful, especially for kids and the young at heart. If you want to add a twist, consider making ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies and enjoy a delicious frozen treat that’s sure to impress.
For special occasions, consider decorating the cookies with a light glaze or icing. Use a simple mixture of powdered sugar and milk, adding food coloring if desired, to create festive designs. This playful approach works wonderfully for holidays and birthday celebrations. Pair these treats with coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. This combination brings a touch of comfort that makes any moment feel special. Lastly, you can even crumble the cookies over yogurt or dessert cups to add a delightful crunch.
Expert Tips for Chewy Sugar Cookies
To ensure your chewy sugar cookies come out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, use room-temperature butter when creaming with sugar; it creates a lighter texture and helps the cookies rise properly. Don’t skip the step of rolling the dough in sugar before baking. This simple action gives the cookies a lovely sparkle and adds sweetness.
Consider chilling the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps the flavors meld and enhances the chewy texture, allowing the cookies to spread less during baking. Keep an eye on the baking time. If you take them out when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft, you’ll ensure a chewy finish. Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet, as they’ll continue to set up while cooling.
Finally, feel free to experiment with different flavors. Adding zest from oranges or lemons can brighten up the flavor profile, while mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth. These small changes can take your chewy sugar cookies from good to extraordinary.
How to Store Chewy Sugar Cookies
Storing your chewy sugar cookies correctly will ensure they maintain their delightful texture and flavor. Once the cookies have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. If you plan to eat them within a week, you can simply keep them at room temperature. This method helps retain their chewiness.
For longer storage, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to two weeks. If you want to store them even longer, you can freeze the cookies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to come to room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their chewy goodness.
Variations of Chewy Sugar Cookies
Chewy sugar cookies allow for countless variations, making them a lot of fun to bake. One popular option is to add chocolate chips. Simply fold in a cup of your favorite chocolate chips after mixing in the dry ingredients for a deliciously sweet surprise. For a more colorful flair, consider adding sprinkles on top before baking. This creates an eye-catching treat that’s perfect for kids’ parties.
You can also experiment with different extracts. While vanilla is a classic, trying coconut or maple extract can add unique dimensions to the flavor. Additionally, considering incorporating nuts like walnuts or pecans adds both flavor and texture; just chop them roughly and mix them in at the same stage as chocolate chips. For a more indulgent cookie, roll your cookie dough in crushed candy canes for a festive touch—ideal for holiday baking.
Lastly, you can create filled variations by adding a dollop of fruit preserves or marshmallow fluff to the center of dough balls before baking. This unexpected element results in a delightful surprise as you bite into the cookie, making each cookie experience unique.
FAQ about Chewy Sugar Cookies
You may have some questions about how to create the perfect chewy sugar cookies. One common concern is, “What makes sugar cookies chewy?” The key factors are the right balance of ingredients, especially butter and sugar, along with the baking time. Underbaking slightly ensures a softer and chewier cookie.
Another popular question is, “Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?” While it’s possible, it will change the flavor and texture. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight richness, which can create a different taste profile. If you decide to substitute, try a mix of both for a unique twist.
Many people wonder about the role of baking soda and baking powder in the cookies. Baking soda helps with spread and gives a slight rise, while baking powder contributes to a lighter texture. Both are essential for achieving that desirable chewy consistency.
Lastly, “Can I make the dough ahead of time?” Yes, you can make the dough ahead and store it in the fridge for a couple of days or freeze it for longer. Just make sure to let it soften slightly before baking for the best results.
With these tips and tricks, you can perfect your chewy sugar cookie recipe, ensuring that every batch turns out delicious and satisfying.
Chewy Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Should be at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups white sugar Plus additional for rolling
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For Rolling
- 1 cup granulated sugar For rolling the cookie dough
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the mixture and continue beating until well combined.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated, avoiding overmixing.
Baking
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!