Chewy Sugar Cookies
Nothing says comfort quite like a batch of fresh-baked cookies, and when it comes to satisfying that sweet craving, Chewy Sugar Cookies are my go-to treat. I remember the first time I whipped up these delights in my kitchen; the buttery aroma filled the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. The simple act of creaming together sugar and butter felt like magic. As I rolled the dough into little balls and popped them into the oven, I knew I was in for a treat. The anticipation as they baked, bubbling and turning golden brown, was almost unbearable. Once they were ready, the warm cookies practically begged to be devoured. With a light crunch on the outside and a chewy center, they quickly became a family favorite.
Whether it’s a special occasion or just a quiet afternoon, these cookies bring people together. I often make a double batch because they disappear in an instant! They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a glass of milk while snuggled up on the couch. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, even for baking novices. So, let’s dive into the world of Chewy Sugar Cookies and explore why they’re more than just a treat—they’re a delightful piece of my heart.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
10 mins
10 mins
Medium
120 kcal
1g g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
6g g
Baking Sheet, Oven, Mixing Bowl
The Best Thing About This Chewy Sugar Cookies
Perfect Texture
One of the standout features of Chewy Sugar Cookies is undoubtedly their texture. I love how they strike the perfect balance between a crunchy exterior and a soft, chewy interior. This delightful combination makes every bite satisfying, enhancing the overall experience.
Versatile Flavors
What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. You can add a pinch of spices, mix in chocolate chips, or even sprinkle some nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist. The base of the cookie is simple, allowing for endless creativity in flavor combinations. You can customize them to fit any palate!
Quick and Simple
These cookies come together in no time. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, they’re perfect for a spontaneous baking session. The joy of mixing, scooping, and baking feels almost therapeutic, making it an ideal choice for a quick pick-me-up.
Great for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, Chewy Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion. They’re even a hit during the holidays, bringing festive cheer to gatherings and events. Who doesn’t love a homemade cookie?
Family Tradition
For many families, baking cookies is a cherished tradition. I love making Chewy Sugar Cookies with my kids, passing down family recipes and sharing laughter and stories. It’s more than just baking; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.
What to Buy for Chewy Sugar Cookies
The ingredients for Chewy Sugar Cookies come together beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in the final product, ensuring that every bite is sweet perfection. The star players include all-purpose flour for structure, sugar for sweetness, and butter to enrich the flavor and texture. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 3/4 cup sugar: Provides sweetness and affects texture.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb.
- 2 tbsp butter flavored shortening: Enhances the buttery flavor and helps with texture.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup: Increases chewiness and adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tsp almond extract: Adds a lovely, subtle almond flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure for the cookies.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the acid to create lift.
Directions for Chewy Sugar Cookies
Let’s get started on making those delicious Chewy Sugar Cookies. This process is straightforward and enjoyable, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a beautiful batch ready in no time!
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is essential as it prevents the cookies from sticking and helps in even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, butter, butter flavored shortening, and salt. Use a mixer to cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to incorporate air into the mixture for a light texture.
- Add in egg, light corn syrup, almond extract, and mix until well combined. The mixture should look creamy and smooth, with no visible lumps. This is where the magic of flavor begins to develop.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to stay soft and chewy!
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Each ball should be about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the lined baking sheet, giving each a little space to spread.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your hands or the bottom of a glass. This helps them bake evenly; if you leave them as balls, they might not spread out as desired.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly!
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to firm up a little while still being warm and chewy.
- For an extra special touch, make a simple almond frosting by mixing powdered sugar, almond extract, and just enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this over the warm cookies and sprinkle with sprinkles if desired. They’re now ready to devour!
Things Worth Knowing
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps in achieving the right texture.
- For perfectly round cookies, use a cookie scoop for even sizing.
- If you want extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients.
- Letting the cookies cool completely ensures they maintain their chewy texture and don’t crumble.
Tips and Tricks about Chewy Sugar Cookies
When it comes to baking Chewy Sugar Cookies, having a few tips up your sleeve can make all the difference. Here are some valuable insights to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
- Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for several days!
- Freezing: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Just ensure they’re fully cooled, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Pairing: Enjoy your cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Frosting Variations: While almond frosting is delicious, feel free to experiment with flavors like lemon or chocolate!
- Batch Variations: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to create a different flavor profile.
How to Enjoy Chewy Sugar Cookies
There’s no wrong way to enjoy Chewy Sugar Cookies. Here are some ideas to enhance your experience:
- Serve Warm: Fresh from the oven, these cookies have an irresistible texture that’s hard to resist.
- Coffee Break: Pair with your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a sweet pick-me-up.
- Picnic Treat: Pack them for a picnic or outdoor gathering; they’re sure to be a hit!
- Kid-Friendly: These cookies are great for kids’ parties—fun to decorate and even more fun to eat!
- Holiday Goodies: Make them during the holiday season and package them as gifts for friends and family.
FAQ
Conclusion
The magic of Chewy Sugar Cookies lies in their delightful texture and simple, sweet flavor that evokes warmth and comfort. These cookies are not just a treat, they are a piece of nostalgia that can brighten any day. So grab your ingredients and bake up a batch; I promise you won’t regret it!
Chewy Sugar Cookies
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 tbsp butter flavored shortening
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 unit egg
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is essential as it prevents the cookies from sticking and helps in even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, butter, butter flavored shortening, and salt. Use a mixer to cream these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. You want to incorporate air into the mixture for a light texture.
- Add in egg, light corn syrup, almond extract, and mix until well combined. The mixture should look creamy and smooth, with no visible lumps. This is where the magic of flavor begins to develop.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents throughout the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to stay soft and chewy!
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Each ball should be about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the lined baking sheet, giving each a little space to spread.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your hands or the bottom of a glass. This helps them bake evenly; if you leave them as balls, they might not spread out as desired.
- Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly!
- Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows them to firm up a little while still being warm and chewy.
- For an extra special touch, make a simple almond frosting by mixing powdered sugar, almond extract, and just enough milk to reach your desired consistency. Drizzle this over the warm cookies and sprinkle with sprinkles if desired. They’re now ready to devour!
