Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe

These Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies are pure comfort in cookie form—pillowy centers, lightly crisped edges, and that melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes you reach for just one more. If you’ve ever wished for a sugar cookie that skips the dryness or crunch, this recipe will become an instant favorite. The blend of simple ingredients comes together with just the right technique to yield cookies that stay beautifully soft and chewy for days. Whether you’re baking a batch for a celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies deliver all the buttery vanilla goodness you love in a sugar cookie, only better.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Baking Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies couldn’t be simpler, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in perfecting their taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips to help your cookies stand out every time.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookies, providing structure while keeping the crumb soft and tender.
• Baking powder: Gives just the right amount of lift for a slightly puffy, delicate center.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies spread just enough and browns the edges for flavor and color.
• Salt: A small amount heightens all the other flavors in the cookie—don’t skip it!
• Unsalted butter: Softened, but still a bit chilled, this is the key to rich flavor and perfect chewiness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and gives cookies their classic sparkle and slightly crisp exterior, especially when used for rolling.
• Large egg: Adds essential moisture and helps bind the dough for a tender bite.
• Egg yolk: The secret to achieving that extra chew; it adds richness and prevents dryness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweet flavor profile with a fragrant, classic aroma in every bite.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pans

Start by heating your oven to 350° F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper—this keeps the cookies from sticking and helps them bake evenly. Getting these essentials set up first saves time and helps guarantee picture-perfect results.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Thoroughly blending these ingredients now means you’ll get even rise and consistent flavor all the way through every Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookie.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened butter with the sugar. Start on low speed to avoid a sugar storm, then increase to medium-high until the mixture becomes irresistibly creamy and pale. This step is essential—creaming incorporates air, giving the cookies that signature lightness and chew.

Step 4: Add Egg, Egg Yolk, and Vanilla

Crack in one whole egg and follow with an extra yolk for extra chewiness. Pour in the vanilla. Beat on medium until everything is smooth and beautifully blended, scraping the bowl as needed to make sure every bit of butter and sugar is mixed in.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, gradually add your flour mixture, stirring just until combined. Don’t overmix! The dough will feel thick and firm, and that’s exactly what you want for Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies that don’t spread too much in the oven.

Step 6: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Dough

Scoop or roll the dough into 1-inch balls. If you love a sparkly exterior, gently roll each ball in the reserved granulated sugar. Space them about 3 inches apart on your lined sheets so they have room to spread and flatten as they bake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake one pan of cookies at a time, for about 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye: you want the tops to look just set and the bottoms a soft golden brown. Don’t overbake—the cookies may look slightly puffy, but they’ll settle and become delightfully chewy as they cool on the baking sheet.

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

A gentle dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, or for a playful effect, try a quick drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate. For festive gatherings, colorful sprinkles pressed into the tops before baking make these Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies even more fun.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate nostalgic treat. They’re also fantastic alongside fresh berries, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an all-out dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for sweet gifts, or pile them high on a pastel platter for a party centerpiece. For a show-stopping treat platter, alternate Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies with chocolate chip and snickerdoodle varieties—you’ll wow everyone with delicious variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow cookies to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored at room temperature, Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies will stay fresh and moist for up to 5 days—though let’s be honest, they rarely last that long!

Freezing

For make-ahead magic, freeze the dough balls (sugared or unsugared) on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Baked cookies also freeze well; just layer between sheets of wax paper in a freezer-safe container. Either way, your future self will thank you!

Reheating

Bring frozen cookies to room temperature on the counter, or give them a quick 5-8 seconds in the microwave for that just-baked softness. If you’ve frozen the dough, bake straight from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

How do I keep my Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking can help if you have a warm kitchen. Also, make sure your butter is softened but not melted; this keeps the dough firm and helps the cookies hold their shape.

Can I substitute the butter for margarine or a vegan alternative?

You can use plant-based butter sticks for a dairy-free version, but the flavor and texture might change slightly. Regular unsalted butter gives the richest taste and that classic chewy texture, so try to stick with it if you can.

Why do I need extra egg yolk in this recipe?

The egg yolk adds extra fat and richness, which is the key to the softness and chewiness that makes these sugar cookies so special. Don’t skip it if you want the authentic Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies experience!

Can I add other mix-ins, like sprinkles or citrus zest?

Absolutely! Fold in rainbow sprinkles for a funfetti twist, or try a touch of lemon or orange zest for a subtle citrus note. Just keep mix-ins moderate so the cookies don’t lose their classic chewiness.

What’s the best way to get cookies with even shapes and sizes?

Use a small cookie scoop or a measuring tablespoon to portion out the dough. This ensures your Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies bake evenly and look extra professional every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about a batch of homemade Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results right from your own oven. Give them a try for your next family gathering, bake sale, or “just because” moment—you won’t be able to stop at one!

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