The holidays are a time for sweet treats, cozy gatherings, and making memories with loved ones. And what’s more festive than a warm, chewy sugar cookie fresh from the oven? Whether you’re a classic traditionalist or a adventurous foodie, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious sugar cookie recipes perfect for the holiday season.
From classic vanilla to creative flavor combinations like lemon glazed and brown butter, these sugar cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. And let’s not forget about the fun and festive presentation – who doesn’t love a perfectly piped royal icing border or a sprinkle-covered masterpiece?
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
These tender and sweet cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delightful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are a staple for any occasion. With their tender texture and sweet flavor, they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy lemon glazed sugar cookies. Perfect for a morning treat or an afternoon snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and lemon juice.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Brown Butter Sugar Cookies
These chewy cookies have a rich, nutty flavor from browned butter, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With only six ingredients and simple instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until dissolved.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly, then whisk in egg and vanilla extract.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cooled butter mixture until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Sugar Cookies
Elevate your sugar cookie game with this irresistible recipe for Chocolate Dipped Sugar Cookies. Crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these treats are perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
9. Dip cooled cookies into melted white chocolate, using a fork or dipping tool to coat evenly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size)
Almond Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the nutty flavor of almonds and paired with a rich, velvety royal icing. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add almonds and mix until combined.
4. Beat in egg and almond extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Mix powdered sugar and meringue powder in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until smooth. Use immediately.
Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, perfect for a fall treat or Halloween party. With just the right amount of sweetness and crunch from chopped pecans, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– Pumpkin pie spice, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in pumpkin puree and eggs.
4. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and pumpkin pie spice.
6. If using pecans, fold them into the dough.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Velvet Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies get a burst of flavor from the addition of red velvet cake mix, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup red velvet cake mix
– Colored sprinkles or chopped pecans for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Stir in red velvet cake mix until well combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Peanut Butter Sugar Cookies
A classic favorite with a delicious twist, these peanut butter sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the rich flavor of creamy peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, your choice!)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg until well mixed.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Frosted Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are elevated with a rich maple frosting, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in maple syrup and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely.
Maple Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
Beat powdered sugar and maple syrup together until smooth. Spread or drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies infused with the warmth of ginger and spices are perfect for a cozy holiday treat or a special occasion. With just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies will be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 egg
– Water, as needed
– Decorations of your choice (e.g., icing, sprinkles)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Sugar Cookies
Bring a taste of summer sunshine to your baking with these sweet and tender sugar cookies infused with the flavors of strawberry shortcake. Perfect for a warm-weather dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup strawberry jam
– 1 egg
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or chopped strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in strawberry jam, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop 1-inch balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Snickerdoodle Sugar Cookies
Soft, chewy sugar cookies infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of sugar – a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tbsp cream of tartar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and cream of tartar until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Sugar Cookies
A refreshing twist on classic sugar cookies, these matcha green tea treats combine the brightness of green tea with the sweetness of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Chai Spiced Sugar Cookies
These sweet treats combine the comforting flavors of chai spices with the classic simplicity of sugar cookies, perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp chai spice blend (or individual spices: cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and cloves)
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add chai spice blend and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Funfetti Sugar Cookies
These vibrant cookies are perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat any time of the year. With a hint of funfetti sprinkles and a soft, chewy texture, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Stuffed Sugar Cookies
These chewy sugar cookies get a sweet twist with a gooey caramel center. Perfect for a special treat or dessert, these cookies are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Use your thumb to create an indentation in each cookie, then fill with 1-2 tsp of caramel sauce.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Oatmeal Sugar Cookies with Cinnamon
Warm Up with Oatmeal Sugar Cookies with Cinnamon!
These soft-baked cookies combine the comforting flavors of oatmeal and cinnamon to create a sweet treat perfect for any time of day. With just the right amount of crunch from rolled oats, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and cinnamon.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black and White Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, featuring a striking black and white design. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Black and white frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with black and white designs.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Raspberry Jam Thumbprint Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a fruity twist with the addition of raspberry jam and a delicate thumbprint design. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert, these cookies are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 cup raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Scoop into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
5. Place a ball of dough on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
7. Fill the indentation with a small dollop of raspberry jam. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some sweet treats this holiday season with these 20 delicious sugar cookie recipes! From classic vanilla and soft and chewy textures, to festive flavors like lemon, brown butter, and pumpkin spice, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the funfetti, matcha green tea, and chai spiced options for a unique twist. Whether you’re looking for a simple recipe or a show-stopping dessert, this collection has it all. So go ahead and get baking with these sugar cookie recipes perfect for holidays!
