There’s something magical about biting into a Super Soft Sugar Cookie—its delicate crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture are pure comfort. These cookies are lightly sweet, with a buttery richness that feels indulgent yet simple, perfect for any occasion. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re a quick treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen.
Each bite delivers a soft, pillowy center with a hint of vanilla warmth, balanced by a subtle crispness at the edges. Whether you’re baking for a party or a cozy night in, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser. Plus, their light and airy texture makes them irresistible—you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!
Ingredients for Super Soft Sugar Cookies
- ¾ cup butter (softened to room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs (large, at room temperature)
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 ¼ teaspoons baking powder
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled for accuracy)
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
- 1 tablespoon milk (or heavy cream for a richer frosting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Add the salt, baking powder, and flour. Mix until the dough is smooth and no dry streaks remain.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. (This helps prevent spreading during baking.)
- Preheat the oven: While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball with the bottom of a drinking glass until about ¼-inch thick.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the bottoms are slightly browned.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting.
- Make the frosting: In a stand mixer or large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla and milk, and mix until smooth and spreadable.
- Frost and decorate: Spread the frosting onto the cooled cookies. Add sprinkles or other decorations, if desired.
Frosting & Topping Ideas to Elevate Your Cookies
While the classic vanilla frosting and sprinkles are a hit, why not get creative? Try adding a citrus twist by mixing 1 teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the frosting. For a richer flavor, swap the milk in the frosting for heavy cream or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version. Top with crushed nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even edible glitter for a festive touch!
How to Store & Keep Your Cookies Soft
To maintain that super soft texture, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting. If the frosting hardens, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
Short on time? Skip the chilling step by using a cookie scoop to portion the dough directly onto the baking sheet. The cookies will spread slightly more but still taste delicious. Alternatively, make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze for up to a month. Bake straight from the fridge or freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use margarine instead of butter? While butter is best for flavor and texture, margarine can work in a pinch. Just note that the cookies may spread more. Why chill the dough? Chilling prevents excessive spreading and helps the cookies hold their shape. If you’re in a rush, pop the dough in the freezer for 15-20 minutes instead of the full hour.
Equipment Tips for Perfect Cookies
For evenly baked cookies, use a light-colored baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. A stand mixer or hand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar a breeze, but a sturdy spatula and some elbow grease work too. If you don’t have a drinking glass to flatten the dough, try using the bottom of a measuring cup instead!
Super Soft Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Cookies
- 3/4 cup butter, (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Frosting
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 Tablespoon milk
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
- Mix in eggs and vanilla until combined.
- Add salt, baking powder and flour and mix until well incorporated.
- Cover dough bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Roll cookies into 1-inch balls and flatten with the bottom of a drinking glass until ¼-inch thick.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until slightly golden brown on the bottom.
- Let cool completely.
- In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, beat together powdered sugar and butter until creamy. Mix in vanilla and milk until smooth.
- Frost cooled cookies with frosting and top with sprinkles, if desired.