Get ready to fall in love with these Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies that are soft, delicious, and perfectly chewy! This recipe delivers a classic treat with a twist—each cookie has a delightful texture that stays tender and chewy even after cooling. Ideal for holidays, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are a must-try for anyone who loves a homemade, melt-in-your-mouth dessert.
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Ingredients for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Substitutions for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- Flour Options: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend if you’re avoiding gluten
- Butter Alternatives: Substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan version
- Egg Replacement: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for egg-free cookies
- Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative
- Sweetener Swap: Experiment with superfine sugar or a mix of granulated and light brown sugar for a richer flavor
How to Make Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and sour cream until well combined.
- Combine & Chill: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated. Cover the dough and chill for at least 1 hour to ensure chewier cookies.
- Shape & Roll: Scoop rounded tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar.
- Bake: Place the sugar-coated balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Cool & Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Mix-ins for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist
- Spices: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, spiced notes
- Nuts: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
- Chocolate: Gently swirl in mini chocolate chips for a sweet, chocolaty burst
Recipe Tips for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step—it’s key for achieving a chewy texture
- Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies
- Watch the Bake Time: Underbake slightly to keep the centers soft and chewy
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and sour cream are at room temperature for a smooth, well-mixed dough
Storage for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Freezer: Freeze individual cookies or dough balls on a baking sheet; once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: For a freshly baked feel, warm cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds
Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe Variations
- Cut-Out Cookies: Roll out the chilled dough between parchment sheets, cut into fun shapes, and bake as cut-outs for festive occasions
- Sandwich Cookies: Spread a layer of your favorite jam or a creamy buttercream between two cookies for a delightful sandwich treat
- Double Chocolate: Replace part of the flour with cocoa powder and add chocolate chips for a chocolatey variation
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free butter, flax egg, and plant-based sour cream to create a vegan-friendly version
FAQs for Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
Q: Why are my Sugar Cookies not chewy enough?
A: Ensure you’re chilling the dough for at least 1 hour and avoid overbaking. Using sour cream also helps add moisture for a chewier texture.
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze dough balls for longer storage.
Q: How do I adjust this recipe for a softer cookie?
A: Slightly underbake the cookies—remove them when the edges are set and the centers still look a bit soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I substitute almond extract for vanilla?
A: While almond extract adds a lovely flavor, it’s best used in addition to vanilla extract rather than as a full substitute for a balanced taste.
Final Thoughts on Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe You Must Try
These Ultimate Chewy Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of soft, tender centers and a lightly crisp edge. With a few simple ingredients and plenty of room for creative mix-ins, you can customize these cookies to suit any occasion or taste. Try this recipe today and experience a cookie that’s not only delicious but also irresistibly chewy—a true must-try treat for every cookie lover!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sugar cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cookie dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw completely at room temperature before baking. If baking ahead, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze individually for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for the sour cream in this recipe?
The sour cream contributes to the chewy texture and adds moisture. You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a very similar result. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative will work, although the flavor profile might be slightly different. Use the same amount (3 tablespoons) as a replacement.
How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set. The centers should still appear slightly soft. Overbaking will result in dry cookies. A good indicator is that the cookies will be firm enough to remove from the baking sheet after 5 minutes of cooling, but still have that soft, chewy center.
Can I double or triple this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. Simply multiply all ingredients by the desired factor. You may need to adjust baking time slightly; start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier than the original recipe suggests, as larger batches may bake slightly faster. You might also need to use multiple baking sheets to ensure even baking.
What are the main nutritional benefits of these cookies?
While these are cookies and should be enjoyed in moderation, they do provide some nutritional value. The butter provides some fat-soluble vitamins, and the flour offers carbohydrates for energy. The sour cream contributes to calcium and protein content. However, the primary nutritional benefit comes from the enjoyment and potential mood boost associated with a sweet treat! Remember to check the nutritional information of your specific ingredients for a more precise analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sugar cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cookie dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw completely at room temperature before baking. If baking ahead, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze individually for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for the sour cream in this recipe?
The sour cream contributes to the chewy texture and adds moisture. You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a very similar result. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative will work, although the flavor profile might be slightly different. Use the same amount (3 tablespoons) as a replacement.
How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set. The centers should still appear slightly soft. Overbaking will result in dry cookies. A good indicator is that the cookies will be firm enough to remove from the baking sheet after 5 minutes of cooling, but still have that soft, chewy center.
Can I double or triple this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe. Simply multiply all ingredients by the desired factor. You may need to adjust baking time slightly; start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier than the original recipe suggests, as larger batches may bake slightly faster. You might also need to use multiple baking sheets to ensure even baking.
What are the main nutritional benefits of these cookies?
While these are cookies and should be enjoyed in moderation, they do provide some nutritional value. The butter provides some fat-soluble vitamins, and the flour offers carbohydrates for energy. The sour cream contributes to calcium and protein content. However, the primary nutritional benefit comes from the enjoyment and potential mood boost associated with a sweet treat! Remember to check the nutritional information of your specific ingredients for a more precise analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the sugar cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw completely at room temperature before baking. If baking ahead, store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze individually for up to 2 months.
What can I substitute for the sour cream in this recipe to keep the cookies chewy?
The sour cream contributes to the chewy texture and adds moisture. You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a very similar result, using the same amount (3 tablespoons). For a dairy-free option, coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative will work; be aware the flavor profile might be slightly different. Be sure to use full-fat versions for best results.
How do I know when these sugar cookies are perfectly baked and still chewy?
Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the edges are lightly golden brown and set. The centers should still appear slightly soft. Overbaking will result in dry cookies. A good indicator is that the cookies will be firm enough to remove from the baking sheet after 5 minutes of cooling, but still have that soft, chewy center.
Can I easily double this sugar cookie recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe. Simply multiply all ingredients by 2. You may need to adjust baking time slightly; start checking for doneness a minute or two earlier than the original recipe suggests, as larger batches may bake slightly faster. Make sure to use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrowding and ensure even baking.
What are some of the nutritional aspects of these chewy sugar cookies?
While these are cookies and should be enjoyed in moderation, they do provide some nutritional value. The butter provides some fat-soluble vitamins, and the flour offers carbohydrates for energy. The sour cream contributes to calcium and protein content. However, the primary nutritional benefit comes from the enjoyment and potential mood boost associated with a sweet treat! Remember to check the nutritional information of your specific ingredients for a more precise analysis.
