3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Quick and easy, these 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat made with just three simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings, these buttery cookies are sure to impress. With no eggs required, this recipe is not only simple but also quick to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cookies
• How to Make 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
• Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
• Step 4: Shape the Cookies
• Step 5: Coat with Sugar
• Step 6: Flatten & Decorate
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Cool
• How to Serve 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• With a Glass of Milk
• As Cookie Sandwiches
• Decorated for Festivities
• With Ice Cream
• At Parties
• Gift-Wrapped Treats
• How to Perfect 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• Best Side Dishes for 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• Reheating 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make my 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies softer?
• Can I add flavors to my sugar cookies?
• What can I use instead of butter?
• How do I store leftover cookies?
• Can I decorate these sugar cookies?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity: With only three ingredients, this cookie recipe is incredibly straightforward and requires minimal preparation.
• Quick to Prepare: You can have these cookies ready in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize with optional vanilla extract or colorful sprinkles to suit your taste and occasion.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy a slightly crunchy exterior with a soft center that melts in your mouth.
• Kid-Friendly: Involve the little ones in the baking process; they will love rolling the dough and decorating the cookies!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your sugar cookie adventure, gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Handheld electric mixer
• Medium mixing bowl
• Cookie scoop or hands for shaping
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Handheld electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a creamy texture by easily blending butter and sugar together.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets prevents sticking and ensures even baking without mess.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ⅔ cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
• Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)

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How to Make 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar until combined. The mixture should be slightly gritty—this is normal.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Add the all-purpose flour into the mixture. Mix until well combined. If you’re using vanilla extract, blend it in at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

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

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar to lightly coat them. Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Flatten & Decorate

Press each dough ball gently with the bottom of a measuring cup or glass until they reach about 3/16-inch thickness. If using sprinkles, add them on top now and press lightly so they stick.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for approximately 14-16 minutes or until you see that edges and bottoms are just slightly golden.

Step 8: Cool

Remove from the oven and let cookies rest on 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 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want them as a simple treat or dressed up for a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing that enhances their sweetness.

As Cookie Sandwiches

• Spread frosting or jam between two cookies to create delightful cookie sandwiches that add an extra layer of flavor.

Decorated for Festivities

• Top the cookies with icing or colored sprinkles to match any holiday theme, making them perfect for celebrations.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.

At Parties

• Place the cookies on a decorative platter at gatherings or parties; their simplicity makes them appealing to guests of all ages.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Package these sugar cookies in cute boxes or bags as homemade gifts that friends and family will love.

How to Perfect 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

To ensure your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use standard measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right proportions, especially the flour.
• Soften Butter Properly: Let the butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft but not melted; this helps achieve a creamy texture when mixed.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Chill If Needed: If the dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking; they should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

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Best Side Dishes for 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies can be complemented with various side dishes. Here are some great options that pair wonderfully with them.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s fun to share.
3. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the buttery flavor of these sugar cookies beautifully.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delicious snack that contrasts nicely with cookie sweetness.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide a savory balance to your sugary treats, offering variety on your plate.
6. Nut Mix: A crunchy nut mix adds texture and protein, making your dessert spread more satisfying.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be a breeze, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Too Much Flour: Adding too much flour can make your cookies dry and crumbly. Always spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• Not Creaming Enough: If you don’t cream the butter and sugar well, the cookies may not have a light texture. Beat them until just combined, but not overly airy.
• Overbaking: Baking too long will lead to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them; they should be slightly golden on the edges.
• Skipping Vanilla: Leaving out vanilla can result in bland cookies. Adding it enhances the flavor significantly, so use it if possible!
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the texture. Make sure your oven is correctly set to 325°F (163°C).

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds for softness.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm for a couple of minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies softer?

You can try reducing the baking time slightly or adding a bit more butter to enhance moisture.

Can I add flavors to my sugar cookies?

Absolutely! You can include almond extract or lemon zest to give your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies a unique twist.

What can I use instead of butter?

If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter can work well in this recipe.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I decorate these sugar cookies?

Yes! Feel free to frost or add sprinkles before baking for extra flair!

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only quick to make but also versatile and delightful. Customize them with your favorite add-ins or decorations to suit any occasion. Give this simple recipe a try, and you’ll have delicious treats ready in no time!

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