The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit than with a batch (or two) of delicious sugar cookies? These sweet treats are a classic favorite for many, and with good reason. Not only do they taste amazing, but they’re also incredibly versatile – perfect for decorating with friends and family, or packaging up as gifts for loved ones.
From classic vanilla to innovative flavors like matcha green tea and chai spiced, we’ve got 18 delicious sugar cookie recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add a little something special to their holiday celebrations.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of the 18 recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and techniques for making them truly unforgettable. So grab your mixing bowls and baking sheets – it’s time to get baking!
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
A classic cookie recipe that yields soft, chewy, and sweet treats perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in confectioners’ sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your cookie jar with these tangy and sweet treats. Lemon glaze adds a burst of citrus flavor to the classic sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack.
8. Drizzle with Lemon Glaze (powdered sugar and lemon juice mixed together) and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Sugar Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic sugar cookies dipped in rich chocolate. A perfect combination of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
9. Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place on parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies get a tender twist with this recipe, yielding soft and chewy treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
Warm up your fall festivities with these soft-baked Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies, infused with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and egg until well combined.
4. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
These chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warm flavor of almonds and topped with a rich, velvety royal icing. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 large eggs
– Royal icing (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in confectioners’ sugar and almonds.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
– Food coloring (optional)
Mix powdered sugar and meringue powder in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until smooth. Tint with food coloring if desired. Use to decorate cooled cookies.
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
These classic cookies get a boost from browned butter and white sugar, creating a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Brown the butter in a medium skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in white granulated sugar until dissolved.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Pour the brown butter mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Strawberry Frosted Sugar Cookies
Sweet and tangy, these Strawberry Frosted Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Strawberry frosting (recipe below)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Strawberry Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp strawberry jam
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Beat butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add strawberry jam and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Use to frost cooled cookies.
Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Enjoy!
Matcha Green Tea Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tender and flavorful sugar cookies infused with the subtle bitterness of matcha green tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder (or more to taste)
– 1 large egg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add matcha powder and mix well.
4. Beat in the egg and salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these refreshing peppermint sugar cookies, perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (or peppermint extract)
– 1 egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add crushed peppermint candies or peppermint extract to the butter mixture; mix well.
5. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut into desired shapes and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these scrumptious gluten-free sugar cookies!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Vegan Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these soft, chewy, and utterly delicious vegan sugar cookies.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg replacement (such as Ener-G Egg Replacer or flaxseed mixed with water)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg replacement, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Zest Sugar Cookies
These sweet treats combine the warmth of sugar cookies with the brightness of orange zest, perfect for a sunny day or a special occasion. With a simple dough and a touch of citrus, you’ll be enjoying these delightful cookies in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp orange zest
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and orange zest until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chai Spiced Sugar Cookies
These Chai-spiced sugar cookies are a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet indulgence, reminiscent of a cozy cup of chai on a chilly day. Perfect for snacking or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Chai spice mix (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and black pepper.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms. If using chai spice mix, add 1/2 tsp to the dough.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
These soft, chewy cookies are infused with the deep flavor of red velvet cake and topped with a sweet powdered sugar glaze. Perfect for a special treat or holiday gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Powdered sugar for glazing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and red food coloring.
3. Add softened butter, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies
Sweet and nutty, these classic sugar cookies are elevated by the addition of creamy peanut butter. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in peanut butter and egg until smooth.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies
Combine the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the sweetness of sugar cookies for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Eggnog Sugar Cookies
Eggnog Sugar Cookies Recipe
Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with these scrumptious Eggnog Sugar Cookies, infused with the warm spices and creamy flavor of eggnog. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for a festive treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp ground nutmeg
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggnog and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to bake up some holiday cheer with these 18 delicious sugar cookie recipes! From classic vanilla and lemon glazed to chocolate dipped and soft and chewy, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at pumpkin spice, almond, or brown butter varieties, or get creative with strawberry frosted, matcha green tea, peppermint, or chai spiced cookies. And don’t worry about dietary restrictions – we’ve also got gluten-free, vegan, orange zest, and cinnamon roll options to please all palates. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these sugar cookie recipes are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations!
