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Cozy Grandma’s Sugar Cookies Recipe Easy Soft Tender Centers

grandmas sugar cookies - featured image

These cozy grandma’s sugar cookies feature soft, tender centers with a slightly crisp edge, delivering a comforting and nostalgic treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Colored sugar or sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

  1. Take the unsalted butter and eggs out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to bring them to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
  3. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract if using.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, mixing on low speed after each addition until just combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
  6. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
  7. Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons and place 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden but centers remain soft.
  9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough is key for soft centers and helps cookies hold their shape. Avoid overmixing after adding flour to prevent tough cookies. Pull cookies out when edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked for the best texture. Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking. Dough and baked cookies can be frozen for later use.

Nutrition

Keywords: sugar cookies, soft cookies, grandma's recipe, easy cookies, tender centers, baking, comfort food