Name: Chewy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2.75 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 0.5 tsp baking powder; 0.5 tsp baking soda; 0.5 tsp salt; 1 cup granulated white sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter (very softened); 1 large egg (at room temperature); 2 tsp vanilla; 0.25 cup granulated white sugar (for rolling dough in)

Introduction to Chewy Sugar Cookies

Chewy sugar cookies have become a beloved treat in many households, and for good reason. These delightful cookies strike the perfect balance between tender and crisp, making each bite a satisfying experience. What’s not to love about their subtly sweet flavor that pairs so well with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk? If you’ve ever wondered why these cookies hold such a special place in the dessert world, it comes down to their texture and simplicity.

Unlike their crunchy counterparts, chewy sugar cookies almost melt in your mouth. The combination of softened butter and sugar creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! You can easily customize these cookies by adding sprinkles, incorporating spices, or even mixing in chocolate chips or nuts.

Baking chewy sugar cookies is a fantastic way to share joy, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a cozy night in. Not to mention, when you fill your home with the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies, it’s hard not to feel a sense of nostalgia and happiness. If you’re ready to dive into the world of baking, you’re in the right place! Let’s get started and make some delicious chewy sugar cookies together.

Ingredients for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Creating the perfect chewy sugar cookies begins with simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you will need for this delightful treat:

All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¾ cups (344 g), spooned and leveled. The foundation of your cookies, flour provides the structure.
Baking Powder: ½ tsp. This helps the cookies rise, giving them that desirable chewiness.
Baking Soda: ½ tsp. Another leavening agent, important for achieving the right texture.
Salt: ½ tsp. A little salt enhances the sweetness, balancing the overall flavor.
Granulated White Sugar: 1 cup (200 g), plus an additional ¼ cup (50 g) for rolling. This is key for sweetness and helps create a pleasing texture.
Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (227 g), very softened. Butter adds richness and flavor, so make sure it’s at room temperature.
Egg: 1, at room temperature. Eggs contribute to moisture and structure.
Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp. Pure vanilla offers a lovely depth of flavor to your cookies.

With these ingredients, you’re just steps away from creating delicious chewy sugar cookies. Feeling curious about other baking tips? Check out these expert blogs on baking basics or cookie variations. Happy baking!

Preparing Chewy Sugar Cookies

Creating the perfect chewy sugar cookies is a rewarding experience that can fill your home with delightful aromas and put a smile on everyone’s face. Let’s walk through the steps together, shall we?

Gather Your Ingredients

To kick things off, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This is key to a smooth baking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 ¾ cups (344 g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (very softened)
1 egg (at room temperature)
2 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for rolling)

Having everything set out and easy to reach minimizes the chances of forgetting something and maximizes your efficiency!

Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together

In a medium bowl, it's time to whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is essential as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, leading to perfectly risen cookies. Set this bowl aside and prepare for the next step.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the very softened butter and the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer on high speed, blend them together for about 1-2 minutes. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy texture here; it’s like giving your butter and sugar a mini workout. This crucial step creates the foundation for your chewy sugar cookies, helping them achieve that beloved soft texture.

Add the Egg and Vanilla

Now that your mixture is fluffy, it’s time to add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix these in on medium speed until the color lightens and becomes even fluffier, which should take just another minute or so. You’ll really enjoy this step—there’s something magical about the transformation!

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Once your wet ingredients are ready, it’s time to fold in the dry ingredients. Add the dry mixture to the wet and mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which could result in tough cookies. Remember, we want them nice and chewy!

Shape and Roll the Dough

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Then, roll these dough balls in the extra ¼ cup of sugar. This not only adds sweetness but creates a beautiful sugary exterior once baked.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place your cookie dough balls onto the sheets, leaving at least 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball into a round shape, then pop them into the oven for 9-10 minutes. When they're just lightly golden, that’s your cue to take them out and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack.

And there you have it! With these easy steps, you’ll soon be enjoying your very own delicious chewy sugar cookies. If you’re looking for tips on making them even more special, consider adding chocolate chips or sprinkles for an extra touch! Happy baking!

Variations on Chewy Sugar Cookies

Looking to shake things up with your chewy sugar cookies? Here are two fun variations that can elevate your baking game!

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookie Twist

For a delicious twist, simply add in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the original dough. Mixing chocolate with the classic sugar cookie flavor creates a delightful treat that satisfies both cookie lovers and chocolate enthusiasts alike. You’ll get that wonderful contrast of sweetness and a rich, gooey texture that everyone will adore!

Chewy Sugar Cookies with Citrus Zest

If you prefer a refreshing vibe, incorporate the zest of one lemon or orange into your dough. This simple addition brings a burst of brightness that complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly. The citrus aroma while baking is simply irresistible!

Feel free to experiment with these variations, and discover your new favorite cookie recipe! Join the community of baking enthusiasts at The Kitchn or Serious Eats for more inspiration!

Baking notes for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Common mistakes to avoid

When making chewy sugar cookies, a few common pitfalls can lead to disappointing results. First, be sure to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly; under-creaming can yield dense cookies. Also, avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients—this can make your cookies tough. Lastly, don't skip the chilling of the dough if you're in a warmer climate; it helps prevent spreading.

Tips for perfect texture

For that ideal chewy texture, use room temperature butter, as it incorporates air better, creating a light and fluffy base. Also, slightly underbaking the cookies ensures they remain soft and chewy. If you want extra chewiness, consider adding a tablespoon of corn syrup to your dough. For a delightful twist, check out this resource on cookie science at Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Pairing with Milk or Coffee

There's nothing quite like enjoying chewy sugar cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creaminess of the milk beautifully balances the sweet, buttery flavor of the cookies. If you're a coffee lover, try pairing your cookies with a rich cup of coffee or a mocha for a delightful afternoon treat. The warmth and depth of coffee complement the sugary softness, making it a perfect match.

Creative Presentation Ideas

Elevate your chewy sugar cookies with a few simple presentation tricks. Consider stacking them in a clear glass jar or on a decorative plate for an inviting display. Tying some twine around the jar and adding a personalized tag makes a thoughtful gift. Alternatively, serve them on a colorful platter along with some fruit or chocolate for added visual appeal. Don't forget to check out this guide on cookie decorating for some fresh ideas!

Time Details for Chewy Sugar Cookies

When you're ready to bake these delightful chewy sugar cookies, it's good to know how to plan your time efficiently. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Preparation Time

Give yourself about 15 minutes to prep the dough. This time includes gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together.

Baking Time

Baking is relatively quick! Expect about 9-10 minutes in the oven for each batch, ensuring you watch for that golden edge.

Total Time

By the end, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes from start to finish, including prep and baking time. This allows for some cooling too, so you get to enjoy your fresh cookies at their best.

Feeling impatient about those cookies? If you want a little more insight into the baking process, check out this article on the science of baking for an understanding of why timing is so crucial. Enjoy the cookie-making adventure!

Nutritional Information for Chewy Sugar Cookies

When you’re indulging in chewy sugar cookies, it’s helpful to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s a quick breakdown of their nutritional content:

Calories

Each chewy sugar cookie contains approximately 150 calories, making it a delightful treat without too much guilt.

Protein

These cookies offer about 1.5 grams of protein each, which can help keep your energy levels stable while you enjoy them.

Sodium

With roughly 70 milligrams of sodium per cookie, they remain fairly low in salt, making them a sweeter choice compared to many snacks.

Understanding the nutritional information can help you enjoy these cookies as part of a balanced diet. For more on healthy snacking, you can explore resources from the American Heart Association or ChooseMyPlate.gov. Enjoy every chewy bite!

FAQs about Chewy Sugar Cookies

How do I store chewy sugar cookies?

To keep your chewy sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They'll stay soft and delicious for about a week. If you want to maintain their freshness for longer, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; it helps to retain moisture!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Freezing chewy sugar cookies dough is a great way to prepare for future cravings. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once solid, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time from frozen.

What can I substitute for unsalted butter?

If you don’t have unsalted butter on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free twist. For a richer flavor, consider using ghee or cream cheese; both provide excellent results in cookie recipes. Just remember to keep the ratios consistent to maintain the chewy texture you love!

Conclusion on Chewy Sugar Cookies

In the world of baking, chewy sugar cookies hold a special place as a delightful treat that can brighten any day. With their rich buttery flavor and subtle sweetness, they are incredibly simple to make, making them perfect for both seasoned bakers and novices alike. Enjoy them warm or cooled, and share the joy with friends!