Easy Soft Sugar Cookies (Print Format)

Soft, chewy sugar cookies with smooth buttercream frosting, customizable with colors and sprinkles for festive occasions.

# Ingredients:

→ Cookies

01 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 large egg yolk
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
07 - 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

→ Frosting

10 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
11 - 1 1/3 cups powdered sugar
12 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
13 - 1/8 teaspoon salt
14 - 1 tablespoon milk
15 - Food coloring, optional
16 - Sprinkles, optional

# Steps:

01 - Beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is pale and fluffy, incorporating air to ensure tender cookies.
02 - Blend in the large egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
03 - Gradually add baking soda, cream of tartar, salt, and all-purpose flour, mixing on low speed just until a dough forms to avoid toughening.
04 - Scoop out approximately 2-tablespoon portions of dough and place them spaced apart on a lined baking sheet to allow spreading.
05 - Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 11 to 15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
06 - Beat softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until creamy. Gradually add milk until smooth and tint with food coloring if desired.
07 - Spread the buttercream evenly over completely cooled cookies and garnish with sprinkles to your preference.

# Tips:

01 - Cookies can be frozen both frosted and unfrosted; store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container for up to two months and frost after thawing.
02 - Use real butter for optimal flavor and texture; vegan butter alternatives can be substituted for dairy-free versions.
03 - Avoid overbaking to maintain softness, as cookies firm up during cooling.
04 - Cream of tartar contributes to softness and controls spreading.
05 - For a frosted appearance without icing, roll dough balls in granulated sugar before baking.