Chewy Sugar Cookies

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are an absolute delight, perfect for any occasion. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with a buttery sweetness, makes them ideal for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night at home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they will quickly become your go-to cookie recipe. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness that captures the essence of comfort baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: The straightforward steps make these cookies accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful softness and chewiness that’s simply irresistible.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s Christmas, birthdays, or everyday treats, these cookies fit right in.
• Easily Customizable: Add in chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to make them your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are loved by everyone, making them great for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Chewy Sugar Cookies, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless for that light fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping your dry and wet ingredients separate until ready to combine.
• Baking sheets: Provide a flat surface to bake your cookies evenly without burning.

Ingredients

To create the best Chewy Sugar Cookies, make sure you have these ingredients on hand:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups (344 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla

For Rolling

• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar

How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer on high speed to cream together the very softened butter and granulated sugar for 1-2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next:
1. Add in the egg and vanilla extract.
2. Mix on medium speed until pale in color and very fluffy, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Now:
1. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture.
2. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined.

Step 6: Shape the Dough Balls

Then:
1. Scoop out dough using a 2 tbsp cookie scoop.
2. Roll each scoop into balls and then roll them in granulated sugar.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

On the prepared baking sheets:
1. Place cookie dough balls at least 2 inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball into a circle as best as you can.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake:
1. Place 6-8 cookies in the oven at a time.
2. Bake for 9-10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
3. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy your deliciously chewy sugar cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies

Chewy sugar cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some serving suggestions that will make these cookies even more enjoyable.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing! The creaminess of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream Sandwich

• Take two chewy sugar cookies and sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between them for a delicious treat.

Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add a burst of flavor that complements the cookies.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top your cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess and a touch of elegance.

Hot Chocolate Dip

• Warm up some hot chocolate and use it as a dip for your chewy sugar cookies. This is especially cozy during colder months!

How to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies

To ensure your chewy sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour when measuring to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; take them out when they are slightly underbaked for that perfect chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Pairing your chewy sugar cookies with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate provides a rich dipping option that pairs perfectly with the cookie’s texture.
3. Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread or dip in cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist on flavor.
4. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on top or serve as a side for added texture and flavor.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free alternative that adds tropical flair and creaminess alongside the cookies.
6. Tea or Coffee: A warm beverage like tea or coffee can enhance the flavors and provide a comforting experience while enjoying your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chewy sugar cookies can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Boldly overmixing the dough: Mixing too much after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the creaming process. Make sure your butter is very softened and your egg is at room temperature.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can make your cookies spread too much while baking. If you have time, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Using inaccurate measurements: Spoon and level your flour to avoid packing it down. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Not checking baking times: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months.
• For unbaked dough, scoop into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before storing in a bag. Use within 3 months.

Reheating Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chewy sugar cookies:

How do I achieve chewier sugar cookies?

Using more brown sugar than white sugar helps retain moisture, leading to chewier cookies.

Can I customize chewy sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for different flavors and textures.

How long do chewy sugar cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week at room temperature.

What’s the secret to perfect chewy sugar cookies?

The key is in using softened butter and not overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients.

Final Thoughts

These chewy sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them a delightful treat that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making them uniquely yours!