Name: Chewy Sugar Cookies: Your Go-To Recipe for Sweet Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure; measure accurately to avoid dry cookies—spoon and level to prevent excess.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it's fresh for best results.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Works with baking powder for an ideal rise; don’t omit it for an amazing texture.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; a little goes a long way.); 1 cup granulated sugar (The key sweetener that defines texture and taste; use 1 cup (200g) for perfect cookies.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Adds moisture and rich flavor; make sure it’s very softened for a fluffy texture.); 1 large egg (Introduces moisture and richness; using it at room temperature helps it blend smoothly into the dough.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Elevates the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling) (Provides a sweet crust; roll your cookie balls in 1/4 cup (50g) for a delightful finish.)

As the scent of freshly baked cookies fills the air, there’s a warm sense of nostalgia that comes rushing back—those cherished moments around the holiday table, laughter mingling with mouthwatering aromas. My Chewy Sugar Cookies are not just any cookie; they are soft and buttery delights that melt in your mouth and instantly brighten up any gathering. These easy-to-make cookies are perfect for spreading joy and comfort during the festive season, and their chewy centers are sure to become a family favorite. Whether paired with a glass of milk or a cup of cocoa, their allure is undeniable. Curious about how to create this delightful treat? Let’s get baking!

What makes chewy sugar cookies a must-bake?

Buttery Bliss: These cookies boast a melt-in-your-mouth texture, providing an irresistible experience with every bite.

Simplicity: With just a few common ingredients, you’ll whip these up in no time, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Festive Appeal: Ideal for holiday gatherings, they’re sure to impress family and friends, bringing smiles all around.

Versatile: Feel free to customize them with mix-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles for an extra twist!

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy family night or a festive party, everyone will be reaching for seconds—or even thirds!

Ready to elevate your baking game? Don’t forget to check out my Cinnamon Sugar Cruffins for another delightful treat!

Chewy Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• Discover the secrets to perfect chewy sugar cookies below!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; measure accurately to avoid dry cookies—spoon and level to prevent excess.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for fluffiness; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Baking Soda – Works with baking powder for an ideal rise; don’t omit it for an amazing texture.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; a little goes a long way.
Granulated Sugar – The key sweetener that defines texture and taste; use 1 cup (200g) for perfect cookies.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and rich flavor; make sure it’s very softened for a fluffy texture.
Egg – Introduces moisture and richness; using it at room temperature helps it blend smoothly into the dough.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Provides a sweet crust; roll your cookie balls in 1/4 cup (50g) for a delightful finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a moment to line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal later. The parchment will prevent sticking and help create a golden underside for your Chewy Sugar Cookies.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step will help evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring that your cookies rise beautifully. Set the bowl aside, allowing the dry ingredients to rest while you move on to the wet components.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 1 to 2 minutes. You’re looking for a pale texture that indicates great aeration. This crucial step builds the foundation for your chewy cookie texture, so give it the attention it deserves!

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, beat in one room temperature egg and the pure vanilla extract, and continue mixing for another 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The egg contributes to the chewy texture, while the vanilla enhances the irresistible aroma of your Chewy Sugar Cookies. Ensure everything is well blended and fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add your whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the perfect chewy texture. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, but rich in the delightful flavors of your Chewy Sugar Cookies.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls in your hands. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring each cookie is spaced at least 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to encourage even baking.

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 9 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the edges; they should be just golden, while the centers will look soft and slightly underbaked. This ensures that your Chewy Sugar Cookies have that perfect chewy center.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set. Afterward, gently transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely, where they’ll firm up while retaining their delightful chewiness. Enjoy these Chewy Sugar Cookies once they’re cool enough to handle!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Chewy Sugar Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help them retain their delightful chewiness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer to extend freshness, store cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until just warm. Your Chewy Sugar Cookies will be just as delightful as the first day!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, rolling the dough into balls, and then refrigerating them in an airtight container. This not only saves you time when you’re ready to bake but also enhances the flavor as it allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. If you’d like to prepare the cookies even further, you can freeze the rolled dough balls for up to 3 months. Before baking, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, roll in sugar, and then bake as per the original instructions. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy fresh, chewy cookies with minimal effort on your busy holiday nights!

What to Serve with Chewy Sugar Cookies

When indulging in a batch of Chewy Sugar Cookies, it’s delightful to think about what else can enhance your experience and bring that cozy warmth to your table.

Glass of Milk: The classic pairing, milk’s creamy richness beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of cocoa—its chocolaty flavor contrasts wonderfully with the buttery cookies, creating a heartwarming treat.
Coffee: A robust cup of coffee adds depth to the sweetness, making the perfect afternoon pick-me-up.
Fruit Salad: For a refreshing twist, serve a vibrant fruit salad; its bright flavors cleanse the palate between bites of cookie.
Ice Cream: Top warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously indulgent treat that melts into each cookie.
Brownie Sundae: Layer brownies with a scoop of ice cream and a Chewy Sugar Cookie on top—twice the sweetness in one delightful dish!
Christmas Punch: Serve a festive drink like spiced holiday punch, its flavors harmonizing with the warm, buttery notes of the cookies.
Nutty Cookie Crumble Topping: Crushed nut cookies sprinkled on top of a dessert plate adds a textural contrast that enhances the cookie experience.

Each of these pairings elevates the experience of enjoying your Chewy Sugar Cookies, bringing joy to every bite and sip!

Expert Tips for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Butter Matters: Ensure your butter is very softened for easy creaming; this helps achieve that perfect chewy texture in your cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated to prevent tough cookies.
Space Cookies Properly: Place cookie balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet; they will spread as they bake.
Observe Baking Time: Slightly underbake your cookies (look for soft centers) to maintain their delicious chewiness once cooled.
Sugar Coating: Roll cookie balls in granulated sugar right before baking to create a lovely sweet crust that complements the chewy centers of your Chewy Sugar Cookies.

Chewy Sugar Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Discover exciting ways to personalize your Chewy Sugar Cookies and delight your taste buds!

Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a delicious twist, adding rich chocolatey goodness to your chewy cookies.
Sprinkle Magic: Add festive sprinkles into the dough for a joyful, colorful surprise that’s perfect for holiday celebrations.
Nutty Flavor: Integrate 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie center.
Citrus Zest: Grate in some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing burst of flavor that lightens up the sweetness deliciously.
Creamy Cream Cheese: Substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for denser cookies with a slight tang, perfect for a unique taste experience.
Spiced Delight: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that’s wonderful during the colder seasons, adding a cozy touch.
Oatmeal Addition: Incorporate 1 cup of quick oats for a heartier texture and a wholesome twist that packs in a delightful chew.
S’mores Inspired: Add mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers for a fun s’mores twist, infusing that classic campfire flavor into your cookies.

With these fun variations, you can create a treasure trove of flavors that leave everyone craving more! For another sweet baking adventure, consider trying my Lava Brownie Cookies or brighten your day with Vanilla Waffle Cookies. Happy baking!

Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for chewy sugar cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the perfect structure in your Chewy Sugar Cookies. Be sure to measure it accurately; spoon and level it off to prevent excess flour which can lead to dry cookies.

How should I store leftover chewy sugar cookies?
Keep your Chewy Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help them maintain their chewy texture. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week, allowing them to return to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze chewy sugar cookies, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chewy Sugar Cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, where they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your Chewy Sugar Cookies spread too much, you may have added too much sugar or not chilled the dough long enough. For future batches, consider chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking and checking your measurements closely. This small step can help your cookies maintain their shape and chewy texture!

Are chewy sugar cookies safe for pets?
Generally, it’s best to keep chewy sugar cookies away from pets, especially dogs and cats. Ingredients like sugar and vanilla extract can upset their stomachs, and chocolate is toxic to many animals. Stick to treats made specifically for your furry friends to keep them safe and healthy!