There’s something truly comforting about Panera’s sugar cookies. Soft yet chewy with just the right amount of sweetness they’ve become a favorite treat for many. We decided to recreate this beloved bakery classic so you can enjoy it fresh from your own oven anytime.
This Panera Sugar Cookie recipe captures that perfect balance of buttery flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade cookie, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Let’s dive into making these delightful cookies that bring a little bakery magic right to our kitchen.
Ingredients
To bake our Panera Sugar Cookies exactly like the bakery, we need to gather specific ingredients that create that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the soft, chewy, buttery delight we crave.
Here is the complete list of ingredients, arranged as they come together in the recipe:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar, for that classic cookie sweetness
- 1 large egg, at room temperature, to bind the dough
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, to enhance the buttery notes
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for tender cookies
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder, providing gentle rise and fluffiness
- ½ teaspoon salt, to balance sweetness and intensify flavor
- ¼ cup milk, whole or 2%, adding moisture and softness
- Extra granulated sugar, for rolling the dough balls before baking (optional but recommended for a slight crunch on the outside)
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup | Softened to room temperature |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | For sweetness |
| Large Egg | 1 | Room temperature |
| Pure Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | For flavor enhancement |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 ½ cups | Sifted for texture |
| Baking Powder | 1 ½ teaspoons | Leavening agent |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Flavor balance |
| Milk | ¼ cup | Adds moisture |
| Extra Granulated Sugar | For rolling dough | Optional, adds outside crunch |
We recommend using high-quality vanilla extract and fresh baking powder for the best results. Softened butter is essential here. It allows us to cream the butter and sugar smoothly, creating the cookie’s signature tender crumb.
By preparing our Panera Sugar Cookie Recipe ingredients with care, we set the foundation for the soft chewy texture and rich buttery flavor that define this classic treat.
Equipment Needed
To bake the perfect Panera Sugar Cookies at home, having the right equipment ensures precise results and a smooth process. Here is the essential gear we recommend:
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for combining wet ingredients and a separate medium bowl for dry ingredients. This helps us achieve even mixing.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer allows us to cream the butter and sugar effortlessly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to replicating Panera’s balanced flavor and texture.
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: To sift all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt together, which prevents lumps and promotes uniformity in the dough.
- Rubber or Silicone Spatula: For folding ingredients gently and scraping down bowl sides to incorporate all components.
- Baking Sheets: Preferably heavy-duty or insulated baking sheets to prevent burning on the bottom and promote even cooking.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: These liner options help us prevent cookies from sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: To portion dough evenly, creating uniform cookies that bake consistently.
- Cooling Rack: Vital for cooling cookies quickly and preventing sogginess from trapped steam.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine wet and dry ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter and sugar |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Sifter or Strainer | Remove lumps from dry ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | Fold and scrape dough |
| Baking Sheets | Even baking and browning |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mats | Non-stick surface for baking |
| Cookie Scoop/Tablespoon | Even dough portions |
| Cooling Rack | Proper cookie cooling |
Our Panera Sugar Cookie Recipe calls for these tools to guarantee the texture remains soft, chewy, and packed with that signature buttery flavor every time. Using good equipment reduces guesswork and helps us replicate Panera’s bakery magic right in our kitchens.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing and baking, thorough Prep Work ensures our Panera Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly soft and chewy every time. Let’s tackle the crucial first steps.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurement is key to replicating the bakery’s signature texture and flavor. We want to balance every ingredient precisely. Here’s how to measure like pros:
- Softened Unsalted Butter: Measure at room temperature to ensure proper creaming.
- Granulated Sugar: Use a dry measuring cup, packed lightly.
- All-Purpose Flour: Sift first, then spoon into the measuring cup without compressing.
- Baking Powder and Salt: Use level measuring spoons for exact leavening.
- Milk and Vanilla Extract: Use liquid measuring cups for perfect fluid amounts.
- Egg: Use large eggs at room temperature for consistent dough moisture.
| Ingredient | Measurement Type | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Butter | Weight/Volume | Softened, not melted |
| Granulated Sugar | Volume | Lightly packed |
| All-Purpose Flour | Volume | Sifted, spooned gently |
| Baking Powder | Volume | Level spoons |
| Salt | Volume | Level spoons |
| Milk | Volume | Liquid measuring cup |
| Vanilla Extract | Volume | Liquid measuring spoon |
| Large Egg | Count | Room temperature |
Pro tip: Keep all your ingredients at room temperature for even mixing and a smoother dough.
Preheating the Oven
Consistent oven temperature is essential for baking Panera Sugar Cookies with their trademark soft center and golden edges.
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the rack in the center position for even heat distribution.
- Allow the oven at least 15 minutes to reach the full temperature before baking.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking to keep the temperature steady.
“A fully preheated oven ensures our cookies develop the perfect rise and tender crumb.”
Starting with a hot oven creates the moist, chewy texture that makes these cookies irresistible.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Panera Sugar Cookies with a soft, chewy texture and delightful buttery flavor.
Making the Dough
- Cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (sifted for a lighter texture)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until combined but do not overmix.
- Add 2 tablespoons of milk and stir gently to soften the dough to a smooth, pliable consistency.
Chilling the Dough
- Shape the dough into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling firms the dough which helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor development.
Shaping the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a heavy-duty baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough into 1 ½ tablespoon-sized balls.
- Place the dough balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Gently flatten each dough ball to about ½ inch thickness using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
Baking the Cookies
- Bake on the middle rack for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to finish cooling.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F (175°C) | 15 minutes | Ensures even baking |
| Bake cookies | 350°F (175°C) | 10–12 minutes | Edges golden centers soft |
| Cool on sheet | Room temperature | 5 minutes | Prevents breaking when moving |
| Cool on rack | Room temperature | Until fully cool | Ideal soft chewy texture |
Following these instructions will guarantee we recreate the signature Panera sugar cookie with that iconic soft, chewy bite and buttery sweetness.
Decorating the Cookies
To capture the iconic Panera Sugar Cookie experience, decorating plays a key role. Let’s explore how to prepare and apply a luscious frosting that perfectly complements the soft, chewy cookie base.
Preparing the Frosting
We want a frosting that is smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough to enhance our Panera Sugar Cookies without overpowering them. A classic vanilla cream cheese frosting works beautifully here.
Ingredients for the Frosting:
- 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat at low speed to avoid a powdered sugar cloud.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
- If the frosting is too thick for spreading add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once smooth and fluffy, cover and chill the frosting briefly if it becomes too soft for easier handling.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 4 oz (113 g) | Softened for easy mixing |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (56 g) | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup (120 g) | Sifted for smooth texture |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Pure, for authentic flavor |
| Milk | 1-2 tbsp | Optional; adjusts frosting texture |
Applying the Frosting
Proper frosting application ensures our Panera Sugar Cookies look as delightful as they taste.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Warm cookies will cause the frosting to melt and lose shape.
- Use a butter knife or offset spatula to scoop a generous dollop of frosting.
- Spread the frosting gently over each cookie using soft, smooth strokes, covering from edge to edge.
- For extra flair, add sprinkles, colored sugar, or mini chocolate chips immediately after frosting while it’s still soft.
- Place frosted cookies back on the cooling rack or a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let the frosting set.
By following these steps, our Panera Sugar Cookie decoration will add a creamy, sweet finish that perfectly balances the tender cookie base and elevates every bite.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Panera Sugar Cookie Recipe, we recommend several delightful ways to serve these soft, buttery treats. Each option enhances the cookie’s rich texture and sweet vanilla flavor.
Pairing Beverages
Complement the cookies with warm or cold drinks to balance their sweetness and elevate the overall experience:
| Beverage | Serving Tips |
|---|---|
| Hot Coffee | Use a medium roast to highlight buttery notes |
| Chai Tea | Spiced chai pairs well with vanilla frosting |
| Cold Milk | Classic choice, perfect for kids and adults |
| Cold Brew Coffee | Smooth and bold contrast to cookie sweetness |
| Hot Chocolate | Adds to the indulgence for dessert occasions |
Presentation Ideas
Presentation plays a key role in how we serve these scrumptious Panera Sugar Cookies. Here are some simple yet eye-catching ideas:
- Stacked Plates: Arrange 3-4 cookies on a dessert plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style look.
- Decorative Platter: Serve frosted cookies on a colorful ceramic tray garnished with fresh berries or edible flowers.
- Gift Wrapping: Wrap cookies individually in parchment paper tied with twine for sharing with friends or family.
Serving Temperature
Serve the cookies at room temperature to ensure the frosting is soft and the cookie interior is chewy, preserving their signature texture.
“For the best taste, let cookies sit out for 15 minutes after refrigeration. This lets the frosting soften and the flavors develop fully.”
Creative Twists for Serving
Enhance our classic recipe with one of these delicious variations when serving:
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a small scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between two cookies.
- Fruit and Nut Topping: Garnish with chopped nuts and sliced strawberries or raspberries on frosted cookies.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: Lightly drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the frosted cookies for extra richness.
By serving the Panera Sugar Cookie this way, we ensure each bite is as memorable as the bakery original. The balance of sweetness, texture, and presentation makes these cookies perfect for any occasion.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the soft, chewy texture and buttery sweetness of our homemade Panera sugar cookies. Follow these expert tips to keep your cookies fresh and delicious for days.
- Cool Completely Before Storing
Always allow the cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the cookies soggy or lead to premature spoilage.
- Use an Airtight Container
Store the cookies in an airtight container to lock in moisture and preserve their softness. Avoid plastic bags with small openings or containers that do not seal tightly.
- Separate Layers with Parchment Paper
To prevent sticking and preserve the frosting’s integrity, place a sheet of parchment paper between cookie layers.
- Room Temperature Storage
Keep the container at room temperature away from direct sunlight or heat sources. The cookies stay fresh and chewy for up to 3-4 days this way.
- Refrigeration Guidelines
If you prefer to refrigerate, place the cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. Bring them to room temperature before serving to restore their soft texture.
- Freezing for Extended Storage
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag. They remain best for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | 3-4 days | Keep away from sunlight |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 1 week | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe airtight | Up to 3 months | Freeze first in single layer |
“Storing our Panera sugar cookies properly is key to enjoying that fresh-out-of-the-oven softness with every bite.”
- Avoid Excess Humidity
Avoid storing cookies near humid areas as excess moisture can affect texture.
- Frosted Cookie Storage
Since the frosting contains cream cheese, it benefits from refrigeration if not consumed within a day. Cover the container tightly to prevent drying.
Implementing these steps guarantees your Panera sugar cookies remain soft, chewy, and irresistible throughout their storage time.
Conclusion
Baking Panera’s sugar cookies at home lets us enjoy that perfect soft, chewy texture paired with rich buttery flavor anytime we want. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, replicating this bakery favorite is well within reach.
Taking the time to frost and decorate adds a special touch that makes these cookies even more irresistible. Whether we’re serving them for a cozy treat or sharing with friends, these cookies bring a little bakery magic straight to our kitchen.
By following the tips for storage and serving, we can keep these delightful cookies fresh and delicious for days. It’s a rewarding baking experience that’s sure to satisfy any sweet craving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Panera’s sugar cookies so special?
Panera’s sugar cookies are loved for their soft, chewy texture and perfect balance of buttery flavor and sweetness, creating a comforting and delicious treat.
What are the key ingredients needed to make Panera-style sugar cookies?
Essential ingredients include softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, a large egg, pure vanilla extract, sifted all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and milk.
What equipment do I need to bake these cookies?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a sifter, rubber spatula, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, a cookie scoop, and a cooling rack.
How important is the dough chilling step?
Chilling the dough for at least an hour is crucial for helping the cookies hold their shape and enhancing their flavor.
What temperature should I bake the sugar cookies at?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake until cookie edges are golden but centers remain soft for the perfect texture.
How do I properly decorate Panera sugar cookies?
Use a smooth vanilla cream cheese frosting applied evenly, then add optional decorations like sprinkles or mini chocolate chips before chilling to set.
What drinks pair well with these sugar cookies?
Hot coffee, chai tea, cold milk, cold brew coffee, and hot chocolate complement the cookies’ sweetness beautifully.
How can I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking; refrigeration or freezing is possible for longer storage.
Can I add creative twists to serving these cookies?
Yes! Try ice cream sandwiches, fruit and nut toppings, or chocolate drizzle for a fun and delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Should I serve the cookies warm or at room temperature?
Serving at room temperature is best to enjoy the full soft and chewy texture and rich buttery flavor.