Sugar cookies trace their origins back to the 1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, where German settlers created the first versions, referred to as “Nazareth cookies.” These buttery, crisp cookies became a staple for celebrations due to their versatility and simplicity.
Today, sugar cookies are popular worldwide, particularly as holiday treats. Their pliable dough makes them perfect for rolling and cutting into shapes, while their mild flavor pairs beautifully with decorative royal icing. The inclusion of cream cheese in this recipe adds a subtle tang and enhanced moisture.
What you will need:
| Ingredient | Measure |
| Unsalted Butter (Softened) | 200g |
| Cake flour | 600g |
| Superfine sugar (W) | 300g |
| Baking powder | 18g |
| Kosher or table salt | 5g |
| Eggs | 60g |
| Vanilla essence | 8g |
| Milk | 60g |
| Cream cheese | 40g |
Time Required
Preparation time – 15 minutes
Chilling time – 4 hours or more
Baking time – 8 to 10 minutes
Cooling time – 10 minutes
Nutrition Profile / 100g
Without Icing:
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 5.2 g
Fat: 18.5 g
Carbohydrates: 63 g
With Icing:
Calories: 500 kcal
Protein: 5.7 g
Fat: 18.7 g
Carbohydrates: 71 g
Equipments:
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment (or a hand mixer)
- Large mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula
- Digital kitchen scale and measuring spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Baking trays
- Piping bags (for icing)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough
- We will follow creaming method for this recipe.
- Cream the softened butter, cream cheese, and sugar in the stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the cake flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed.
- Scrape the bowl’s sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Fun Fact
The first sugar cookies were referred to as “jumble cookies” because they could be made into any shape.
Chill the dough
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and flatten each into a disc.
- Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Chilling ensures the dough is firm enough for rolling and helps prevent spreading during baking.
Roll and Cut
- Preheat the oven to 190°C.
- Line baking trays with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
- Roll the chilled dough to a thickness of about 6 mm.
- Use cookie cutters to shape the cookies.
- Transfer them carefully to the prepared trays, spacing them about 2 cm apart.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the trays for 10 minutes.
- Decorate the cookies with royal icing or consume as it in.
- You can find the recipe for the royal icing here.
Variants
- Flavor Enhancements: Add lemon zest, almond extract, or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Dip: Dip half of each baked cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend (ensure it contains xanthan gum).
Serving suggestions
Pair sugar cookies with a hot beverage such as tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
Use festive shapes and colors for occasions like Christmas, Halloween, or birthdays.
Plate on a tiered dessert stand for an elegant presentation.
My Tips:
- Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for a tender crumb.
- Chilling Dough: For intricate shapes, chill the cut cookies on the tray for 10 minutes before baking.
- Storage: Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Decorated cookies can last for 2 weeks at room temperature in a dry, cool place.
- Following the creaming method in this recipe is critical for best results.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Cookies Spreading
Ensure the dough is chilled thoroughly. Avoid over-creaming butter and sugar.
Crumbly Dough
If the dough feels dry, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
Don’t forget to share your results and tag @bake.hows on instagram
