Chewy Sugar Cookies

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings joy to any occasion. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with a buttery sweetness, makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create cookies that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for Christmas or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Easy: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Perfectly Chewy Texture: These cookies have the ideal balance of softness and chewiness, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—holiday parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist!
• Butter-Forward Flavor: The use of unsalted butter gives these cookies a rich and delicious flavor that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, it’s essential to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ideal for achieving the perfect creaminess when mixing butter and sugar.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and consistent results.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These perfectly soft and chewy sugar cookies are incredibly easy to make and have the best pillowy, melt in your mouth texture. With super chewy, buttery, sweet centers and tender edges these will easily become your new favorite cookies. They’re the perfect thing to bake this Christmas season!

For the Cookies:

• 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
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, very softened
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar, for rolling dough in

How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Set this mixture aside as you work on the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on high speed to cream together:
1. Very softened unsalted butter
2. Granulated white sugar

Mix for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the following ingredients to the creamed mixture:
1. Egg
2. Vanilla

Mix on medium speed until pale in color and fluffy—this should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture:
1. Mix on low speed just until combined—do not overmix!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a 2 tbsp cookie scoop:
1. Scoop out dough portions.
2. Roll them into balls.
3. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place cookie dough balls at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheets:
1. Slightly flatten each ball into a circle as best as you can.
2. Bake for about 9-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
3. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Once cooled completely, enjoy these delightful 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 elevate your dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair each chewy sugar cookie with a cold glass of milk. The classic combination enhances the buttery flavor and adds creaminess.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two chewy sugar cookies and place a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between. This makes for a fun and indulgent treat.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt dark or white chocolate and dip half of each cookie into it. Let them cool on parchment paper for a delightful chocolatey twist.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie for an airy texture that complements the chewiness beautifully.

Sprinkled with Sea Salt

• After baking, sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies. This contrast enhances their sweetness and provides an unexpected flavor burst.

How to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies

To achieve the ultimate chewy texture in your sugar cookies, consider these helpful tips that guarantee success every time you bake.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter, leading to better cookie structure.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft, chewy ones.

• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps prevent spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Bake until just golden: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are lightly golden but centers appear slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking as they cool.

• Store properly: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their chewiness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Sugar Cookies

While chewy sugar cookies are delicious solo, pairing them with side dishes can create a more satisfying dessert platter. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds color and natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that complements the chewy texture.

3. Chocolate Fondue: Serve alongside melted chocolate for dipping; it’s an interactive dessert option that everyone loves.

4. Nut Butter Dip: Create a simple nut butter dip by mixing nut butter with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.

5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy counterpart to the chewiness of sugar cookies, creating delightful flavor contrasts.

6. Hot Cocoa: A cozy cup of hot cocoa is perfect during colder months; its rich flavors pair well with sweet cookies.

7. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for extra indulgence.

8. Spiced Tea: A warm spiced tea can balance out the sweetness and add warmth to your dessert table.

These suggestions will help you enjoy your chewy sugar cookies even more!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy sugar cookies can be simple, but avoiding a few common mistakes will ensure the best results.

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can prevent the dough from mixing properly, leading to uneven textures.
• Overmixing the dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Neglecting to measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour for accuracy. Packing it down or scooping directly from the bag can lead to too much flour, making your cookies dry.
• Skipping the chilling step: Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes helps improve texture and flavor. Skipping this step can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking.
• Not spacing cookies on the baking sheet: Ensure cookie dough balls are at least 2 inches apart. This prevents them from merging into one giant cookie during baking.
• Baking too long: Keep a close eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. They should look slightly underbaked in the center; they will continue to cook as they cool.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Freeze cookie dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chewy sugar cookies.

How do I make my Chewy Sugar Cookies softer?

To achieve softer chewy sugar cookies, ensure you don’t overbake them. They should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.

Can I substitute any ingredients in Chewy Sugar Cookies?

Yes! You can replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor, or try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.

What is the best way to store Chewy Sugar Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing either the dough or baked cookies.

How long do homemade Chewy Sugar Cookies last?

Homemade chewy sugar cookies typically last up to one week at room temperature or up to two months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

These chewy sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. With a soft texture and sweet flavor, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Feel free to customize them by adding different flavors or toppings according to your taste!