There’s something truly timeless about a classic sugar cookie, and Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe captures that perfect balance of soft, chewy, and buttery in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress seasoned bakers.
We love how Cheryl’s recipe uses basic pantry ingredients to create cookies that melt in your mouth and hold their shape beautifully for decorating. It’s the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a go-to for holidays, celebrations, or anytime you want a little homemade comfort. Let’s dive into making these delightful sugar cookies that bring warmth and sweetness to any kitchen.
Ingredients
To create Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe, we combine simple yet essential ingredients that give these cookies their signature softness and buttery flavor. Below are the categorized ingredients to make our baking process smooth and precise.
Dry Ingredients
Our Dry Ingredients provide the structure and texture needed for perfect sugar cookies.
- 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
The Wet Ingredients add moisture, richness, and flavor to our sugar cookies, making them irresistibly soft and chewy.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream (for extra tenderness and slight tang)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¾ cups (345g) | Sifted for light texture |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | Helps cookies rise gently |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon | Adds slight lift |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Provides sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup | Softened for easy mixing |
| Egg | 1 large | Binds ingredients |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm flavor |
| Sour cream | ¼ cup | Enhances tenderness |
These carefully selected ingredients ensure our cookies come out perfectly every time—soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with buttery vanilla notes.
Equipment Needed
To bake Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe flawlessly, having the right equipment is essential. Using these tools ensures precise measurements, consistent mixing, and perfect baking results every time.
- Mixing Bowls
We need two medium-sized bowls: one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients. Opt for sturdy, non-reactive bowls like glass or stainless steel to maintain ingredient integrity.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measuring is crucial. Use liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients like sour cream and vanilla extract, and dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. Precision in measurement balances texture and flavor.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer
For smooth, creamy butter and sugar creaming, we recommend an electric hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. This guarantees even mixing without overworking the dough.
- Rubber Spatula
A flexible rubber spatula helps us fold ingredients gently and scrape the sides of the bowl cleanly ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- Cookie Sheet or Baking Pan
Use a heavy-duty, rimmed cookie sheet for even heat distribution. Consider lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Cooling Rack
A wire cooling rack is essential for letting the cookies cool evenly, preventing sogginess and maintaining their perfect chewy texture.
- Rolling Pin & Cookie Cutters (Optional)
If decorating is your goal, a rolling pin and cookie cutters will help shape the dough uniformly. Choose shapes that appeal to the occasion.
- Oven Thermometer
Use an oven thermometer to confirm the oven temperature is precise. Accurate heat is key to baking cookies that are soft inside with a golden edge.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredients | Glass or stainless steel |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Liquid and dry specific |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | Cream butter & sugar thoroughly | Paddle attachment preferred |
| Rubber Spatula | Gentle folding & scraping sides | Flexible for best results |
| Cookie Sheet | Bake cookies perfectly | Use parchment or silicone mat |
| Cooling Rack | Even cooling | Prevents soggy bottoms |
| Rolling Pin & Cutters | Shaping & decorating dough | Optional for decorating |
| Oven Thermometer | Confirm oven temperature | Ensures consistent baking |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies that are perfectly soft, chewy, and full of buttery flavor.
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Line a heavy-duty cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Gather all ingredients measured precisely.
- Separate your ingredients into dry and wet categories using different mixing bowls for efficiency.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened) and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
Add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, and ½ cup sour cream to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.
Chilling the Dough
- Transfer the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap.
- Flatten into a disc shape for even chilling.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
- Chilling enhances flavor development and makes dough easier to handle for shaping.
Shaping the Cookies
- Remove chilled dough from the refrigerator.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out dough on a floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness for optimal cookie thickness.
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to create shapes, dipping cutters in flour between uses to prevent sticking.
- For rustic cookies, simply scoop dough with a cookie scoop and form balls.
Baking
- Place cut or shaped cookies on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Baking time may vary slightly based on cookie size and oven variations.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Cookie Thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (175°C) | 8-10 mins | ¼ inch |
Cooling
- Remove cookies from the oven and let them sit on the cookie sheet for 2 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer to a cooling rack using a spatula to cool completely.
- Cooling prevents sogginess and maintains the ideal chewy texture.
Decorating Tips
Decorating Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies elevates their buttery softness into delightful works of art. To achieve outstanding results, we follow these essential tips that highlight texture, color, and appearance.
Prepare the Cookies for Decorating
- Cool Completely: Always let the cookies cool fully on a wire rack before decorating. Warm cookies cause icing to melt or slide off.
- Flat Surface: Choose cookies with an even, flat top for smooth decoration. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough evenly before cutting shapes.
- Chill Dough or Decorated Cookies: Chilling the dough prevents excessive spreading. After decorating, chill decorated cookies for 10-15 minutes to set the icing.
Icing Choices and Consistencies
We recommend Royal Icing or Buttercream Icing for their color vibrancy and ease of use. Adjust the consistency based on decorating techniques:
| Icing Type | Consistency | Best For | How to Achieve |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flood Icing | Thin, runny | Smooth, glossy surface fills | Add warm water gradually |
| Piping Icing | Medium, holds lines | Detailed outlines and writing | Thicken by adding powdered sugar |
| Stiff Icing | Thick, holds tip shape | 3D flowers, textures, accents | Use less liquid, more powdered sugar |
Coloring the Icing
- Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering icing texture.
- Mix colors gradually to reach the perfect shade.
- Divide icing into small bowls for multiple colors.
Decorating Steps
- Outline first: Pipe a firm outline using medium consistency icing to create a boundary.
- Fill with flood icing: Use thin icing to fill inside the outline with a small spatula or squeeze bottle.
- Add details while wet: Quickly add sprinkles or texture for smooth integration.
- Allow to dry fully: Set decorated cookies at room temperature for 4-6 hours or refrigerate briefly.
Additional Tips for Success
- Work in small batches to prevent icing from drying in the piping bag.
- Use toothpicks or scribe tools to correct mistakes or create decorative patterns.
- Store completed cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
With these decorating tips, Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe becomes not just delicious but visually stunning for every occasion.
Storage and Shelf Life
Storing Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies properly ensures they retain their signature softness and chewiness for as long as possible. To maximize freshness and flavor, follow these essential storage tips.
At Room Temperature
- Place completely cooled sugar cookies in an airtight container.
- Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Cookies remain fresh for 3 to 5 days at room temperature.
Refrigeration
- For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container.
- Bring them to room temperature before serving to restore softness.
- Refrigerated cookies keep well for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing for Longer Storage
- Freeze unfrosted or decorated cookies individually on a baking sheet.
- Once frozen, transfer cookies into a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- To thaw, leave cookies at room temperature inside the airtight container.
- Frozen cookies maintain quality for up to 3 months.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | 3 to 5 days | Use parchment sheets between layers |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 2 weeks | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Freezer-safe bag or container | Up to 3 months | Freeze individually first to avoid sticking |
Important Notes
“Moisture is the enemy of cookie texture.” Always ensure cookies are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation inside the container, which can cause sogginess.
For decorated Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies, ensure icing is fully dry before packaging to avoid smudging and sticking.
Using these storage methods, we can enjoy Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies at their best—deliciously soft, chewy, and bursting with buttery vanilla flavor—even days after baking.
Conclusion
Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness that fits any baking skill level. With just a few pantry staples and straightforward steps, we can create cookies that are soft, chewy, and full of buttery vanilla flavor.
Whether we’re baking for holidays, special events, or just a cozy treat, these cookies deliver both taste and versatility. Adding our personal touch through decorating makes them even more special and fun to share.
By following the tips for baking, decorating, and storing, we ensure every batch turns out just right and stays fresh longer. This recipe truly brings warmth and joy to our kitchens, making it a go-to favorite for all occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe special?
Cheryl’s Sugar Cookie Recipe is known for its perfect balance of softness, chewiness, and buttery vanilla flavor. It’s simple to make, uses basic pantry ingredients, and is ideal for decorating, making it great for both beginners and experienced bakers.
What ingredients do I need to bake these sugar cookies?
You need all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, an egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream. These combine to create cookies that are soft, chewy, and flavorful.
What equipment is necessary for baking Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer, a rubber spatula, a heavy-duty cookie sheet, and a cooling rack. Optional items are a rolling pin, cookie cutters, and an oven thermometer for precise baking.
How do I ensure the cookies come out soft and chewy?
Key steps include creaming butter and sugar properly, not overmixing the dough, chilling the dough before baking, and baking at the right temperature and time as specified in the recipe.
Can I decorate Cheryl’s Sugar Cookies?
Yes! The recipe includes tips for decorating with Royal Icing or Buttercream. Always cool cookies completely first, use flat surfaces, and try different consistencies of icing for outlining, filling, and adding details.
How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 5 days. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure decorated cookies are dry before storing to avoid smudging or sogginess.