Get ready to transport yourself back to grandma's kitchen with these melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookies that have been delighting families for generations! These aren't just ordinary cookies - they're a sweet slice of culinary history that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. With a perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, tender centers, Grandma Mac's Sugar Cookies are about to become your new go-to treat for every occasion, from family gatherings to midnight snack cravings.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Granulated sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the cookies tough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm, then sprinkle the tops generously with additional granulated sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best texture, keep layers separated with parchment paper.
Tips
- Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted - room temperature is key for the perfect creamy texture.
- Don't skip the creaming process! Beating the butter and sugar for 3-4 minutes creates tiny air pockets that make your cookies light and fluffy.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform size and even baking - this ensures all your cookies look professionally made.
- Watch your baking time carefully - golden edges with slightly soft centers are the sweet spot for the perfect texture.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup and maintain their delightful crispness.
- For extra flavor variation, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest to the sugar you'll use for sprinkling.
- Store cookies between parchment paper layers to keep them fresh and prevent sticking.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg