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You won't believe how simple these three ingredient sugar cookies are. I stumbled upon this recipe when I was low on eggs and needed something quick for a school bake sale. Now it's my go to recipe that never fails to impress. The buttery crisp edges remind me of my grandmother's shortbread.
Why I Love This Recipe
After years of complicated cookie recipes this one's pure magic. No chilling no fussy techniques just mix bake and enjoy. My kids can make these almost on their own and they turn out perfect every single time.
Just Three Things
- Butter: 1 cup unsalted and softened leave it out overnight.
- Sugar: ½ cup regular granulated makes them perfectly sweet.
- Flour: 2 cups all purpose is all you need.
- Optional: I love adding vanilla and rainbow sprinkles.
Let's Get Started
First things first cream that butter and sugar until it's light and fluffy. I use my stand mixer but a hand mixer works great too. Add the flour slowly until everything comes together in a beautiful soft dough.
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Shape Those Cookies
Roll your dough into little balls about an inch wide. I like rolling them in extra sugar for sparkle. Press them down with a glass the bottom of a measuring cup works perfectly. Don't worry if they're not perfect that's part of their charm.
Into The Oven
Set that oven to 350°F and let them bake for about 10-12 minutes. You're looking for just a hint of gold around the edges. Trust me they'll firm up as they cool so don't overbake.
My Best Tips
A cookie scoop is your best friend for even sizes. Give them plenty of space they like to spread a bit. And remember they're not done until they've cooled those edges crisp up beautifully.
Make Them Pretty
These cookies are like a blank canvas. Sometimes I drizzle them with simple icing sometimes they get fancy with royal icing designs. My kids love them dipped in chocolate and covered in sprinkles.
Keep Them Fresh
Layer them between parchment in an airtight container they'll stay perfect for 5 days. I always keep rolled dough balls in the freezer ready to bake whenever cookie cravings hit.
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Mix Things Up
Get creative with these some lemon zest makes them zingy a pinch of cinnamon makes them cozy. Sometimes I add chopped pecans or turn them chocolate with cocoa powder. The possibilities are endless.
Perfect for Sharing
Every time I bring this cake to a potluck people crowd around asking for the recipe. It travels so well in the baking dish and that praline sauce keeps everything moist and delicious. I've even started bringing copies of the recipe with me to save time!
Those Toasted Pecans Though
Let me tell you about toasting pecans it's a game changer. Just spread them on a baking sheet pop them in the oven at 350°F and keep an eye on them. That toasty smell will tell you when they're ready usually about 8 minutes. It makes such a difference in the flavor.
A Little Something Extra
Want to make it extra special for the grown ups? Add a tablespoon of bourbon to that praline sauce. It adds this amazing depth that goes perfectly with the pecans. My book club goes crazy for this version.
Why You Need to Chill
I know it's tempting to dig right in but letting this cake chill is so important. That hour in the fridge lets all those wonderful flavors come together and helps that praline sauce work its magic. Good things come to those who wait!
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Get Creative
Once you've mastered this version try switching things up! Make a chocolate version or try a citrus glaze instead of praline. My daughter even created a cookies and cream version that's become another family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why are my sugar cookies too dry?
- Your cookies might be dry if you used too much flour or made the dough balls too small. Also, baking at too high a temperature or for too long can cause dryness. Make sure to follow the exact measurements and bake at 325°F.
- → Can I make these cookies without vanilla extract?
- Yes, you can make these cookies without vanilla extract. While vanilla adds extra flavor and is recommended, the cookies will still taste great with just the three basic ingredients of butter, sugar, and flour.
- → How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
- The cookies are done when they're just slightly golden around the edges and on the bottom, typically after 14-16 minutes. Don't overbake them or they'll become too dry. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 10-15 minutes after baking.
- → How thick should I make these cookies?
- Press the dough balls down to between 1/8 and 1/4 inch thickness (about 3/16 inch to be exact). They will spread during baking to reach normal cookie size. Don't make them too thin or they might become too crispy.
- → How should I store these sugar cookies?
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They'll keep well at room temperature for several days. Make sure they're completely cooled to maintain their texture.