This 3-ingredient sugar cookie recipe is quick and simple, perfect for bakers of any skill level. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can create a batch of deliciously soft and crisp cookies. These homemade sugar cookies require minimal ingredients and prep time, making them an easy go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert or a fun project for kids, this recipe is sure to impress. Bake them plain, or get creative by adding your favorite flavorings or decorations. Perfect for holidays or everyday snacks!

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

2 sticks (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup (100g) white sugar
2 ¼ cups (270g) all-purpose flour

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough feels sticky, chill it in the fridge for 5-10 minutes.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead briefly by hand for about 30 seconds until smooth.
Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness using a rolling pin. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and transfer them to the prepared cookie sheet.
Chill the cut-out cookies for 30 minutes for better shape retention during baking (optional).
Bake for 13-16 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. The center of the cookies should remain pale.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

If the dough becomes too soft while working, refrigerate it for 5-10 minutes to firm up.
Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
For a smoother texture, sift the flour before adding it to the dough.

Variations and Substitutions

Flavored Sugar Cookies: Add vanilla extract (1 tsp) or almond extract (½ tsp) to the dough for a different flavor.
Colorful Cookies: Sprinkle colored sugar on top of the cookies before baking for a fun twist.
Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter and substitute with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) instead of regular butter.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, the dough can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before rolling and cutting.
Can I skip the chilling step?
While chilling helps the cookies keep their shape, it’s not necessary if you’re okay with a little spread during baking.
What if my cookies spread too much?
Chilling the dough and the cut-out cookies helps prevent excessive spreading.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a warm cup of tea or milk for a simple, comforting treat.
They also make great decorations for holidays—decorate with icing or sprinkles for a festive look.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sugar cookies are incredibly easy to make with just three ingredients. The buttery, crisp texture combined with a light sweetness makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to be customized with different flavors or toppings to suit any occasion!