There's nothing quite like the taste of a homemade sugar cookie to bring back a flood of memories from childhood. Whether you're baking for a holiday, an event, or simply for the joy of it, the Betty Crocker sugar cookie recipe is a timeless classic that provides a perfect base for any cookie enthusiast. Let's explore how you can recreate this delicious treat in your kitchen with ease.
Ingredients
- 2 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1⁄2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Ensure your oven rack is in the middle position for even baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine:
- 2 3⁄4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking powder
🍪 Note: Make sure your baking soda and powder are not expired for the best rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, cream together:
- 1 cup of softened butter
- 1 1⁄2 cups of white sugar
Beat the butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the following ingredients to your butter and sugar mixture:
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Mix well until thoroughly combined.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing at low speed until just combined. Do not overmix as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Chill Dough
Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least one hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 7: Roll and Cut Cookies
After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1⁄4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
Step 8: Bake
Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Remember that cookies will continue to bake on the sheet after removal from the oven, so err on the side of underbaking rather than overbaking.
Step 9: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming too brittle.
Decoration Tips
While these cookies are delightful plain, here are some decoration ideas:
- Frosting: Spread frosting with a spatula or pipe it on with a pastry bag for a professional look.
- Sprinkles: Use colorful sprinkles for an extra touch of fun.
- Edible Decorations: Utilize edible flowers, small candies, or edible glitter for an exquisite finish.
- Powdered Sugar: Dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant look.
In summary, the Betty Crocker sugar cookie recipe is not just about making cookies; it's about creating joyful experiences and traditions. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of cookies that taste like home. Enjoy baking, decorating, and sharing these treats with those you love. Whether for a holiday, a special event, or a spontaneous baking session, these sugar cookies are sure to delight anyone who has the pleasure of trying one.
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
+
Yes, you can use margarine instead of butter, though the taste and texture might be slightly different. Margarine can make the cookies softer, but butter gives a richer flavor.
How long can I store the cookie dough?
+Chilled cookie dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Just wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
What can I do if my cookies are spreading too much during baking?
+If your cookies are spreading too much, ensure your butter is not overly soft when you start. Also, chill the dough longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour to help keep the shape.
