Sugar Cookie Recipe for One Dozen Perfect Cookies

Updated On: October 16, 2025

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about biting into a perfectly baked sugar cookie. Whether it’s the buttery texture, the subtle sweetness, or the soft yet slightly crisp edges, sugar cookies have a way of bringing comfort and joy to any occasion.

If you’ve been searching for a reliable, straightforward sugar cookie recipe for one dozen, you’re in the right place. This recipe balances simplicity with deliciousness, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.

Plus, baking a dozen cookies is just the right amount to share with friends, gift during the holidays, or enjoy over a few days without feeling overwhelmed by leftovers.

From the moment you start mixing the ingredients to when those golden cookies come out of the oven, this recipe is designed to be a delightful experience. You’ll find clear, step-by-step instructions and tips to customize your cookies just the way you like them.

Ready to bring a little sweetness into your kitchen? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sugar cookie recipe is a classic for a reason. It yields cookies that are soft in the center with just the right amount of chew, and edges that gently crisp without being hard.

Unlike some sugar cookie recipes that can be dry or overly sweet, this one strikes a perfect balance.

What’s more, the recipe is versatile and easy to tweak. Whether you want to add sprinkles, zest for a citrus twist, or dip them in chocolate, these cookies serve as a wonderful canvas for creativity.

And if you’re interested in expanding your baking repertoire, be sure to check out the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Vegan Ice Cream Recipes To Try for a fun twist on cookie flavors.

Ingredients

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Cooling rack
  • Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Whisk together the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key for that tender texture.
  4. Add the egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The batter should be smooth and slightly glossy.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  6. Shape the cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
  7. Add toppings (optional): Lightly press colored sugar or sprinkles onto the tops of the dough balls for a festive touch.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden but the centers remain soft.
  9. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

For perfectly uniform cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps control spreading and improves texture.

If you love a little extra flavor, try adding the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough. Another delicious variation is to dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark chocolate for a rich contrast.

For a vegan alternative, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes). You might also enjoy exploring other plant-based recipes like the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals to complement your baking.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Cookie
Calories 150 kcal
Total Fat 7g
Saturated Fat 4.5g
Cholesterol 20mg
Sodium 90mg
Total Carbohydrates 20g
Sugars 12g
Protein 1g

Serving Suggestions

These sugar cookies are perfect on their own with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a special treat, try serving them alongside vanilla ice cream or topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

They also make charming gifts during the holiday season. Package a dozen in a decorative tin or a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.

If you’re looking for more dessert ideas to complement your baking, check out the Chocolate Banana Smoothie Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious for a refreshing finish.

Conclusion

Baking a batch of sugar cookies is more than just making a sweet treat; it’s about creating moments of joy, comfort, and shared delight. This recipe for one dozen sugar cookies is approachable, reliable, and endlessly adaptable to your personal tastes and occasions.

Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing for a holiday gathering, or simply indulging a craving, these cookies will not disappoint. Remember, baking is an art best enjoyed with a sprinkle of fun and a dash of patience.

For more wholesome and delicious recipes, explore our collection including the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for a healthy balance in your meals.

Happy baking and enjoy every bite of your homemade sugar cookies!

📖 Recipe Card: Sugar Cookie Recipe for One Dozen

Description: A classic sugar cookie recipe that yields one dozen soft and chewy cookies. Perfect for any occasion or a sweet treat.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 12 cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon colored sugar or sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, mixing until combined.
  6. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.
  7. Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle with colored sugar or sprinkles if desired.
  8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  9. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 16 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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