Sugar Cookies

Classic sugar cookies with soft, buttery texture and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday treats, these easy-to-make cookies hold their shape for decorating and can be customized with sprinkles or flavored extracts.

Soft, buttery sugar cookies with a creamy frosting—perfect for holidays, parties, or any occasion. These classic cookies hold their shape beautifully and have the ideal balance of sweetness and texture.

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Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• ⅔ cup butter or vegetable shortening* (or ⅓ cup of each) – 123 g
• 1 cup granulated sugar – 200 g
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup milk – 83 g
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – 5 ml
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, adds great flavor)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – 375 g
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – 8 g
• 1 teaspoon salt – 5 g

For the Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – 226 g
• ½ cup butter, softened – 113 g
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – 5 ml
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar – 360–480 g

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter (or shortening) and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until combined.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour—but avoid overmixing.

3. Chill the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days).

4. Roll and Cut:
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll the dough to ½–¾ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.

5. Bake:
Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 7–10 minutes, until just set but still pale. The cookies will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking for a soft texture.

6. Make the Frosting:
Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Mix in vanilla extract, then gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached. Beat for several minutes until light and fluffy. (Add food coloring, if desired.)

7. Frost and Decorate:
Once cookies are completely cooled, spread frosting evenly on top. Add sprinkles for decoration, if desired.

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Tips

• Chill the dough well to prevent spreading during baking.
• For precise shapes, dip cookie cutters in flour between cuts.
• Use room-temperature butter and cream cheese for a smooth frosting.
• Don’t overbake — cookies should stay soft and pale.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Flavor Twist: Replace almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrusy touch.
• Frosting Options: Swap cream cheese frosting for a simple buttercream or royal icing.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free milk.
• Decorations: Add colored sugar, edible glitter, or festive sprinkles for holidays.

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FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I store the cookies?
Store frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze frosted cookies?
Yes, freeze them in single layers with parchment paper between each layer.

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Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or birthday celebrations.
• Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of cold milk.
• Package them in gift boxes for homemade holiday presents.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These sugar cookies are tender, flavorful, and hold their shape perfectly for decorating. The rich cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy balance to the sweet cookie base—making them a timeless favorite for any occasion.