3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies Recipe
These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are a simple and delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can create soft, buttery cookies that are quick to prepare and enjoyable for everyone. Optional vanilla extract and sprinkles add a fun and flavorful touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ⅔ cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with ⅔ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. If using vanilla extract, add it now and mix well to combine.
- Add the Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until a smooth dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar for added sweetness and a slight crunch. If desired, add rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils for a festive look.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft texture.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Room temperature butter is essential for creaming properly with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Optional vanilla extract adds depth of flavor but can be omitted.
- Watch the cookies closely near the end of baking to prevent overbaking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For a different flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough.
Keywords: 3-ingredient cookies, easy sugar cookies, simple cookie recipe, buttery sugar cookies, quick dessert
