Since 2017, this sugar cookie recipe has been my go-to for every holiday, birthday, and “just because” baking session. It’s a recipe so dependable, it’s practically part of the family. And like most family members, it’s occasionally misplaced. Over the years, this recipe has lived everywhere—from my desk drawer to my daily planner and, one fateful year, the decorations box. So, to save myself (and you) from the annual scavenger hunt, I’m sharing it here, once and for all.
These cookies are fast, easy, and made with pantry staples. They’re also strong enough to hold up to the biggest gobs of frosting and mountains of sprinkles your kids can pile on. Valentine’s Day? These cookies have you covered. Christmas? Bring it. Tuesday? Why not.
One quick note: The original recipe calls for baking them for 7-9 minutes, which makes them deliciously soft. But after years of frosting-induced cookie collapses, I’ve adjusted the baking time to 10-12 minutes. This makes them sturdier—like hockey pucks, but tasty hockey pucks. Trust me, it’s worth it when your kid’s masterpiece includes three pounds of frosting and a sprinkle avalanche.
Ready to bake? Let’s do this.
Easy No-Chill Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp (don’t microwave to soften!)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper (I picked these up last year from Amazon)
- In a large bowl (or your trusty stand mixer—find mine here), cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking powder and flour. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface. Cut into your favorite shapes using cookie cutters (these heart-shaped ones are perfect for Valentine’s Day or these for Christmas).
- Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes for a sturdier cookie. (If you prefer softer cookies, stick to the original 7-9 minutes.)
- Cool completely before decorating with your favorite frosting and sprinkles. (I purchased these gold-colored measuring spoons which are magnetic and nicely marked).
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- No Chill Time: Who has time for chilling dough? Not me.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your pantry.
- Sturdy Yet Delicious: They’re the perfect canvas for frosting and sprinkles, no matter how heavy-handed your kids are.
Final Thoughts
This sugar cookie recipe has seen it all—lost and found more times than I’d like to admit. But now, it’s here to stay. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just because, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your home too. So, whip up a batch, grab the frosting, and let the sprinkle madness begin! If you try this recipe tag me on instagram @LindsayLola_ so I can see your amazing creations!
