Chewy Sugar Cookies

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Few things are as comforting as a perfectly baked sugar cookie. Soft, chewy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, these cookies are hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a quick dessert, or just because, this recipe has you covered. With the right balance of sweetness and a buttery, soft texture, these chewy sugar cookies are sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create cookies that everyone will love!

Why Chewy Sugar Cookies Are a Timeless Favorite

Perfect Balance of Sweetness and Texture

Chewy sugar cookies are a delightful mix of a soft interior and lightly crisp edges. The balance of buttery richness and just the right sweetness makes them an irresistible treat.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a birthday celebration, or an afternoon snack, chewy sugar cookies are a versatile option that suits every event.

Easy to Customize

These cookies are a perfect base for creativity. Add colorful sprinkles, spices like cinnamon, or dip them in chocolate for a fun twist.

Ingredients You Need for Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies 🛒

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1 tsp baking soda 🥄
• ½ tsp baking powder 🧂
• 1cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• ½ cups granulated sugar 🍬
• 1 large egg 🥚
• 2 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
• ¼ cup sugar (for rolling) 🍚

Choosing the Right Butter and Sugar

Unsalted butter and a mix of granulated and brown sugar can enhance the flavor and texture. For this recipe, granulated sugar is used to maintain a soft and chewy texture.

Optional Add-Ins

Citrus zest, almond extract, or even a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Chewy Sugar Cookies

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven 🔥

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

2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients 🥣

• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.

3️⃣ Cream Butter and Sugar 🧈🍬

• In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

4️⃣ Add Egg and Vanilla 🍦🥚

• Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

5️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures 🌾

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

6️⃣ Shape the Dough 🏐

• Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the extra sugar to coat evenly.

7️⃣ Bake 🍪

• Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers should look soft.

8️⃣ Cool and Enjoy 🛋️

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve and enjoy the chewy goodness! 😋

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chewy Sugar Cookies

Overmixing the Dough

Overmixing can make the cookies dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Skipping the Dough Chill Step

Chilling the dough (if required) helps control spreading and enhances the flavor, though this recipe works fine without it.

Baking Too Long

Remove the cookies when the edges are set, but the centers still look soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.

Serving, Storing, and Customizing Chewy Sugar Cookies

Best Ways to Serve

Pair these cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or tea for a classic treat.

How to Store for Freshness

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them longer, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.

Creative Customization Ideas

Turn them into cookie sandwiches with your favorite frosting.

Add sprinkles for a festive look.

Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel.

The Secret to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies

The secret to achieving that irresistible chewiness lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Using softened unsalted butter ensures a smooth dough, while the combination of baking soda and baking powder gives the cookies their soft texture and slight rise. Rolling the dough balls in sugar adds a subtle crunch, and removing the cookies from the oven when the centers still look soft ensures they stay chewy as they cool

Notes

• For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the dough.
• Ensure the butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
• Don’t skip the step of rolling the dough in sugar; it gives the cookies a delightful sparkle and slight crunch.
• These cookies freeze well. You can freeze the dough balls before baking or the baked cookies for up to 3 months

Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Protein: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Fiber: 0g

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Chewy Sugar Cookies

What Makes Sugar Cookies Chewy?

The key to chewy sugar cookies is using the right ratio of fat to flour, incorporating enough moisture from the egg, and baking them just until the edges are set while the centers remain soft.

Can I Substitute Brown Sugar?

Yes! While this recipe uses granulated sugar, substituting a portion with brown sugar can add more moisture and a deeper flavor to your cookies.

Why Chill the Dough?

Chilling the dough helps control spreading and enhances the cookie’s flavor by allowing the ingredients to meld together