Chewy Sugar Cookies

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! With their soft texture and delightful sweetness, these cookies are a favorite during Christmas and beyond. The best part? This no-chill dough recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous baking sessions or planned gatherings. Enjoy them as-is, or get creative by adding frosting or a glaze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no chilling, allowing you to whip up delicious cookies in just 25 minutes.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of butter and sugar creates a delightful chewiness that will keep everyone coming back for more.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for holiday celebrations, birthday parties, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Minimal Ingredients: With simple pantry staples, you can make these cookies without any fuss.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or baking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Ensures that the butter and sugar are creamed together perfectly for a fluffy texture.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to golden perfection.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a Christmas cookie staple! This no-chill dough sugar cookie recipe is full of simple ingredients and comes together quickly!

For the Dough

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

For Dipping

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for dipping

How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or coat it with baking spray.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about one minute.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract. Beat the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into one-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Arrange the cookie balls on the baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes or until they have set.

Step 7: Cool

Once baked, allow your chewy sugar cookies to cool on the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Dig into your delicious chewy sugar cookies! Feel free to frost them with icing or cover them with a glaze if desired.

These chewy sugar cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings joy to every bite!

How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies

Chewy sugar cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just indulging in a sweet treat, here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these chewy sugar cookies with a classic cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort snack. The creaminess of the milk perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.

Frosted Delights

• Add a layer of frosting on top for an extra touch. Cream cheese or buttercream frosting complements these cookies well and adds a festive flair.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Use two chewy sugar cookies to create delicious cookie sandwiches. Fill them with ice cream, whipped cream, or your favorite spread for an indulgent dessert.

Holiday Platters

• Arrange these cookies on a festive platter alongside other treats. They pair beautifully with gingerbread cookies and peppermint bark for holiday gatherings.

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

• Serve your chewy sugar cookies with coffee or tea. The warm beverages enhance the flavors of the cookies and make for a cozy afternoon snack.

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How to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies

To achieve the perfect chewy sugar cookies, follow these essential tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your butter, flour, and baking powder are fresh. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture in your cookies.

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones.

• Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar. Too much flour can make your dough dry and crumbly.

• Chill if desired: While this recipe doesn’t require chilling, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and texture if you prefer.

• Bake until set: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be lightly golden but still soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.

• Cool on wire racks: Allowing cookies to cool on wire racks helps maintain their chewy texture by preventing them from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Pairing side dishes with chewy sugar cookies can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the cookies and provide a healthy contrast.

2. Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with crumbled chewy sugar cookies for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress.

3. Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate complements these sweet treats beautifully, making it perfect for colder days.

4. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar alongside your cookies for a unique sweet-and-savory combination.

5. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars add another layer of sweetness and nutty flavor that pairs nicely with chewy sugar cookies during dessert time.

6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping; this adds richness that enhances each bite.

7. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and pieces of chewy sugar cookie for a quick breakfast or light snack option.

8. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The tartness of strawberries dipped in chocolate creates an elegant contrast that complements these sweet cookies well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chewy sugar cookies, small errors can lead to big differences in taste and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid for perfect cookies every time.

• Skipping the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar helps incorporate air, leading to a lighter cookie. Take your time with this step for the best results.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can develop gluten, resulting in a tough texture. Mix until just combined for chewy sugar cookies.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour will make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Baking on an unprepared sheet: Skipping parchment paper or baking spray can lead to sticking. Always prepare your baking sheet for easy removal.
• Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can alter baking times. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy sugar cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds; watch carefully not to overdo it.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes chewy sugar cookies different?

Chewy sugar cookies have a soft center and a slightly crisp edge, thanks to the balance of butter, sugar, and flour.

Can I customize my chewy sugar cookies?

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

How do I achieve the perfect chewy texture?

The key is to avoid overmixing and baking just until they are set but still soft in the center.

How long do chewy sugar cookies last?

When stored properly, they can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These chewy sugar cookies are not only simple and quick to make but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite add-ins or toppings. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe during any season or occasion!