{3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

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by Nora

Quick and easy sugar cookies made with just three pantry ingredients—no eggs required! These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to whip up. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a sweet treat any day, these buttery cookies will impress everyone. Whether you decorate them with sprinkles or enjoy them plain, their delightful flavor and crunchy texture make them a must-try.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simplicity: With only three main ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
  • No Eggs Needed: These cookies are completely egg-free, which means they can be enjoyed by those with egg allergies.
  • Versatile: Customize your cookies with different toppings like sprinkles or nonpareils to suit any occasion.
  • Quick Prep Time: You can have these cookies ready in under 40 minutes, from prep to cooling!
  • Deliciously Buttery: The rich flavor of butter shines through in every bite, making them a favorite for all cookie lovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Handheld electric mixer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cookie scoop (or your hands)
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

  • Handheld electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream the butter and sugar together quickly and efficiently.
  • Mixing bowl: A good-sized mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
  • Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures that your cookie balls are uniform in size, leading to even baking.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for these delicious cookies:

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)

For Garnish

  • Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)
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How to Make {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to beat together the butter and 2/3 cup sugar. Mix until well combined; the mixture will be slightly gritty.

Step 3: Add Flour and Vanilla

Add in the flour. If you’re using vanilla extract, blend it in now. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Form Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop or your hands.

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Roll each dough ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, then place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Flatten Dough Balls

Flatten each dough ball slightly using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass. If you’re adding sprinkles, press them lightly into the tops so they stick.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake the cookies for about 14-16 minutes or until edges and bottoms are just slightly golden.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Remove from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy!

How to Serve {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

These delightful cookies are versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.

With Milk

  • Chilled Milk – A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies. Serve with cold or warm milk for a delightful treat.

As Party Favors

  • Decoratively Packaged – Wrap cookies in clear bags with colorful ribbons for a charming party favor that guests will love.

With Ice Cream

  • Ice Cream Sandwiches – Use two cookies to create scrumptious ice cream sandwiches. Choose your favorite flavor for an extra special dessert.

For Holiday Celebrations

  • Festively Decorated – Top with icing or sprinkles to match holiday themes, making them perfect for seasonal celebrations.

With Fruit

  • Fresh Berries – Pair these cookies with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast to their sweetness.

As a Snack

  • Quick Treat – Keep them on hand for quick snacks throughout the day. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike!

How to Perfect {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

To achieve the best results with your easy sugar cookies, consider these helpful tips.

  • Use room temperature butter – This ensures better mixing and results in softer cookies.
  • Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level the flour to avoid adding too much, which can make cookies dry.
  • Cool dough before baking – Chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and maintains shape.
  • Keep an eye on baking time – Check cookies at the lower end of the baking range to avoid overbaking.
  • Experiment with flavors – Try adding almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
  • Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
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Best Side Dishes for {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies pair wonderfully with various dishes, enhancing your overall dessert experience. Here are some great side dish ideas.

  1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the cookies.
  2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy balance alongside your cookies.
  3. Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses that provide a savory contrast to the sweet flavor of your cookies.
  4. Coffee or Tea – Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat that elevates your cookie enjoyment.
  5. Chocolate Fondue – Dip cookie halves into chocolate fondue for an indulgent dessert experience.
  6. Nut Mix – A crunchy nut blend adds texture and balances out the soft, buttery nature of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

  • Using too much flour: This can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour when measuring.
  • Not flattening the dough balls enough: If you skip this step, the cookies may not bake evenly. Gently press down each ball to about 3/16-inch thickness.
  • Baking at the wrong temperature: Baking at 350°F instead of 325°F can cause the cookies to brown too quickly. Always preheat your oven correctly.
  • Overbaking: Keep an eye on them! Bake until just golden around the edges, as they will continue cooking while cooling.
  • Skipping optional ingredients: Vanilla extract and sprinkles may seem optional, but they enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t miss out!

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

  • Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • You can also freeze the dough balls before baking; just roll them and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag.

Reheating {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

  • Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for best results.
  • Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until just warm, but be cautious not to overdo it.
  • Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture for a minute or two.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these cookies easy?

These cookies use only three basic ingredients, making them quick and simple to prepare without any complicated steps.

Can I add flavors or other ingredients?

Absolutely! You can customize your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or different extracts like almond.

How do I achieve the perfect texture?

Ensure you measure flour properly and avoid overbaking. The right balance of butter and sugar is key to achieving that sweet buttery texture.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to a week in the refrigerator or up to three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only quick and simple but also versatile. Enjoy them plain or customize with toppings like sprinkles or icing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these cookies are sure to please. Give them a try today!


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{3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies

3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies


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  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 24 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Description

Indulge in the simplicity of 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies! These buttery delights are made with just three pantry staples, making them perfect for any occasion. With no eggs needed, they cater to those with egg allergies while remaining a crowd favorite. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with colorful sprinkles, their delightful crunch and rich flavor will impress anyone who tries them. In just under 40 minutes, you can whip up a batch that is sure to elevate your dessert game—ideal for parties, holidays, or a sweet treat any day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
  • 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and 2/3 cup sugar until combined.
  3. Gradually add flour and vanilla extract until well mixed.
  4. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in remaining sugar, and place on prepared baking sheets.
  5. Flatten each ball slightly and bake for 14-16 minutes until edges are golden.
  6. Cool on baking sheets for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a rack.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
  • Calories: 117
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 51mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 31mg

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