3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

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by Sabrina

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Quick and easy sugar cookies made with just three pantry ingredients—no eggs required! These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are sweet, buttery delights perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply craving a treat, these cookies stand out for their simplicity and deliciousness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Minimal Ingredients: With only three main ingredients, this recipe is accessible to everyone, even those new to baking.
  • Quick Preparation: Spend just 10 minutes prepping these cookies before they go in the oven, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
  • Customizable Flavor: Add vanilla extract or colorful sprinkles to elevate the flavor and appearance of your cookies.
  • No Eggs Needed: This recipe is egg-free, making it suitable for vegan diets or for those who might be out of eggs.
  • Perfect Texture: The cookies have a delightful balance of crunch and softness that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started on your cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Handheld electric mixer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Cookie scoop (or your hands)
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Handheld electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a perfectly creamed butter and sugar mixture quickly.
  • Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform size for even baking and consistent results.
  • Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these delightful cookies:

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)

For Garnish

  • 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. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to beat the butter and ⅔ cup sugar. Mix until well combined. The mixture should feel slightly gritty; this is completely normal.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Add 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour into the butter-sugar mix. Stir until everything is well combined. If you’re using vanilla extract, blend it in at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter using either a cookie scoop or your hands. This will help create evenly sized cookies that bake consistently.

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Take each dough ball and roll it in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar. Lightly coat each ball before placing 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 are about 3/16-inch thick. If you’re using sprinkles, sprinkle them on top now; be sure to press lightly so they stick.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 14-16 minutes. The edges and bottoms should be just slightly golden when done.

Step 8: Cool

Remove from the oven and let your cookies rest on the baking sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them hold their shape while cooling down.

Enjoy your delicious homemade 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are delicious on their own, but they can be served in various fun and creative ways. Whether for a party or just an afternoon snack, here are some serving ideas to elevate your cookie experience.

  • Use two cookies and fill them with frosting or your favorite spread for a delightful treat.

Ice Cream Toppers

  • Crumble the cookies over a scoop of ice cream to add sweetness and texture.

Gift Jars

  • Layer the cookies in a mason jar with decorative ribbons for a charming homemade gift.

Party Platter

  • Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter alongside fruits and nuts for a visually appealing dessert table.

Milk Dipping Station

  • Serve with a selection of flavored milk (like chocolate or strawberry) for dipping fun.

How to Perfect 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

To achieve the best results with your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies, follow these tips to ensure they come out perfectly every time.

  • Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level the flour to avoid using too much, which can lead to dry cookies.
  • Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
  • Chill Dough if Necessary: If the dough is too soft, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before shaping.
  • Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be slightly golden at the edges but not overdone.
  • Cool Properly: Let them rest on the baking sheet before transferring to a rack so they set without breaking apart.
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Best Side Dishes for 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

While these sugar cookies shine on their own, pairing them with side dishes can create a delightful dessert experience. Here are some great side dish ideas:

  1. Fruit Salad
    A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and balances sweetness.
  2. Chocolate Fondue
    Melted chocolate provides an interactive dessert option where guests can dip their cookies.
  3. Whipped Cream
    A dollop of whipped cream enhances flavor and adds creaminess to each bite.
  4. Coffee or Tea
    A warm beverage pairs wonderfully, complementing the sweetness of the cookies.
  5. Cheese Platter
    A selection of cheeses offers savory contrast that makes the sweet cookies even more enjoyable.
  6. Yogurt Parfaits
    Layer yogurt with granola and cookie crumbles for a delicious twist on dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be a breeze, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s what to watch out for:

  • Using too much flour: Measure flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
  • Not softening the butter: Using cold butter will prevent proper creaming with the sugar. Always let your butter sit at room temperature for at least an hour.
  • Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies and remove them when they’re just slightly golden around the edges.
  • Not flattening the dough balls: If you skip this step, your cookies may not spread properly while baking. Gently press each ball down for even cooking.
  • Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly. Baking at 350°F instead of 325°F can lead to over-baked cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Container: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

  • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
  • Container: Place in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

  • Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and bake for 5 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds per cookie; avoid overheating.
  • Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies last?

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week at room temperature or longer if frozen.

Can I add flavors to my sugar cookies?

Yes! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.

Can I make these cookies without sugar?

Sugar is essential for sweetness and texture. You could try using sugar substitutes, but results may vary.

If your dough feels crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk or more melted butter until it comes together.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for slightly golden edges and bottoms. The centers may look soft but will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only quick to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various toppings and flavors, making them suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a sweet treat, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
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Experience the joy of baking with these delightful 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies! Perfectly sweet and buttery, these cookies are incredibly simple to make with just three pantry staples—no eggs required! In under 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a sweet craving. Customize them with vanilla extract or colorful sprinkles for an extra touch. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and quick preparation time, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite!

  • Author: Sabrina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 14-16 minutes
  • Total Time: 0 hours
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • ⅔ cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and ⅔ cup of sugar until combined.
  3. Gradually add the flour and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract if desired.
  4. Roll dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and coat lightly in the remaining sugar.
  5. Flatten each ball slightly and place on baking sheets with spacing.
  6. Bake for 14-16 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
  7. Cool on baking sheets before transferring to a rack.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
  • Calories: 100
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

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