Best Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

Quick Info

Prep: 30m | Cook: 7–8m | Yield: 30–32 cookies

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 3/4 cups (358g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup (224g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup + 2 tbsp (233g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp (28g) light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

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🍳 Equipment

• Large mixer bowl / stand mixer
• Medium mixing bowl
• Baking sheets & parchment paper (or silicone mats)
• Wire cooling rack
• 1 1/2-tablespoon cookie scoop

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📋 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats[cite: 18].
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside[cite: 18].
3. In a large mixer bowl, cream softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on medium speed until noticeably lightened in color and fluffy[cite: 18].
4. Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated[cite: 18].
5. Mix in vanilla extract until well combined[cite: 18].
6. Add dry ingredients and mix just until a thick, non-sticky dough forms (do not over-mix)[cite: 18]. Use a rubber spatula to bring dough into a cohesive ball[cite: 18].
7. Scoop dough into 1 1/2-tablespoon portions and gently roll into balls[cite: 18].
8. Roll each ball in the 1/4 cup extra sugar to coat completely, then place on prepared baking sheets[cite: 18].
9. Bake for 7–8 minutes[cite: 18]. Remove just before edges begin to turn golden (the centers will be soft and slightly puffy)[cite: 18].
10. Cool on baking sheet for 4–5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely[cite: 18].

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💡 Notes & Variations

• No Chilling Required: This dough goes straight from mixing to the oven[cite: 18].
• Brown Sugar Impact: The 2 tbsp of light brown sugar adds moisture, allowing the cookies to spread properly and stay chewy for days[cite: 18].
• Flour Measurement: Spoon and level flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense, dry cookies[cite: 18].