Name: Best Sugar Cookies With Powdered Sugar
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/4 teaspoon salt

If you’re on the hunt for a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that holds its shape and delivers that nostalgic vanilla flavor with a twist, these Best Sugar Cookies with Powdered Sugar are exactly what you need. They bake up tender, slightly crisp around the edges, and practically dissolve into buttery bliss with every bite. Whether you’re prepping for holiday cut-outs or just want a simple treat to go with coffee, this is the dough you’ll come back to time and time again.

What makes these sugar cookies so special? It’s the use of powdered sugar instead of granulated. This small swap creates a finer, softer crumb that gives each cookie a delicate texture, making them irresistibly light yet rich in flavor. They roll out easily, don’t spread in the oven, and keep their shape beautifully, which makes decorating a dream.

These cookies are incredibly forgiving and easy to work with, making them ideal for both beginner and seasoned bakers. The dough doesn’t require chilling for hours, yet still results in perfect cut-outs. You’ll love how customizable they are too—whether you’re going for a soft center or crispy edges, a light glaze or royal icing, they adapt beautifully. Plus, they stay fresh for days and freeze like a charm.

What Kind of Sugar Should I Use for Sugar Cookies?

Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is the secret weapon here. Unlike granulated sugar, it gives the cookies a smoother, more tender texture. It’s perfect for creating that soft, slightly crumbly bite that dissolves in your mouth, and it also helps the dough roll out without cracking. Just make sure you’re using powdered sugar with cornstarch added (which most store-bought versions include) to aid in the structure.

Ingredients for the Best Sugar Cookies With Powdered Sugar

While this recipe keeps the ingredient list minimal, each component plays a crucial role in the cookie’s flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

Butter: Adds rich flavor and structure. Use unsalted, room-temperature butter for the best results.

Powdered Sugar: The star of the show, it creates a smooth, soft texture and replaces the traditional granulated sugar.

Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds moisture for that tender crumb.

Vanilla Extract: Brings warmth and classic sugar cookie aroma. Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.

Almond Extract (optional): Adds a slight nutty note that enhances the vanilla.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation that gives structure to the cookie.

Baking Soda & Cream of Tartar: This combo creates a gentle rise while keeping the cookie flat and tender.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.

Best Sugar Cookies With Powdered Sugar (1)

How To Make the Best Sugar Cookies With Powdered Sugar

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened butter and powdered sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating air pockets that give the cookie its delicate texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Flavorings

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Blend well until the mixture is creamy and uniform.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and mix until the dough forms.

Step 4: Roll and Cut

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into shapes using your favorite cookie cutters.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the cut-outs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. They should look set and just starting to color around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate

Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing, glaze, or sprinkles of your choice.

How to Serve and Store These Sugar Cookies

This recipe yields about 24 cookies, perfect for a small gathering or gifting. Serve them as-is with a warm drink or jazz them up with icing and festive toppings. These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, freeze the baked cookies (undecorated) for up to 3 months.

What to Serve With Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The rich, creamy sweetness of hot chocolate complements the light texture of these cookies.

Milk (Classic and Almond)

A cold glass of milk is always a win, and almond milk offers a nice twist.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of berries balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Coffee or Espresso

If you’re serving adults, a robust cup of coffee or a shot of espresso makes a great pairing.

Fruit Compote

A spoonful of warm compote brings fruity contrast and color.

Ice Cream

Create mini cookie sandwiches or crumble them over your favorite ice cream.

Lemon Curd

For a tangy twist, a dab of lemon curd atop each cookie adds brightness.

If you loved baking these sugar cookies, you’ll enjoy exploring other sweet treats like:

Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a buttery crunch.

White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles that melt on your tongue.

Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies for something totally fun and colorful.

Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling if you’re craving cozy, fall-time flavors.

Creamy Corn Dip as a savory snack while baking sweet things.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you go with traditional stars or something quirky like cacti or cats? And if you added your own twist to the flavor, I’d love to hear it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more treats on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your next sweet obsession!

Conclusion

There’s something magical about a sugar cookie that actually lives up to its name—sweet, tender, and just the right kind of buttery. These Best Sugar Cookies with Powdered Sugar are simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and practically guaranteed to disappear as fast as you bake them. So whether it’s the holidays or just a Tuesday afternoon, roll out a batch and watch them bring smiles all around.