Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

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There’s something timeless and comforting about a warm sugar cookie. Whether it’s the soft center or the subtle vanilla aroma wafting from the oven, sugar cookies are pure nostalgia wrapped in sweetness. But what if you don’t need a huge batch? That’s where this homemade small batch sugar cookies recipe comes in handy — just enough to satisfy your cravings or share with a few lucky friends.

This recipe is perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. It comes together quickly with pantry staples and bakes into cookies that are lightly crisp on the edges and soft in the center. No mixers, no chilling, just delicious cookies in less than 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Small Batch Sugar Cookies Recipe

These cookies are ideal for when you want a treat without going overboard. They’re buttery, perfectly sweetened, and hold their shape beautifully. The dough is forgiving, which makes them great for rolling and cutting into shapes or baking as drop cookies. Whether you’re baking for one or two, these cookies offer just enough indulgence.

Can I Roll and Cut These Sugar Cookies?

Yes! One of the best parts about this small batch recipe is its versatility. You can roll out the dough for cookie cutters or simply scoop and flatten for quick rounds. Just make sure to flour your surface lightly to prevent sticking. If you want to decorate them, they hold icing and sprinkles well too.

Ingredients for the Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

This sugar cookie dough relies on a handful of basic ingredients that likely already live in your kitchen. Despite its simplicity, each ingredient plays a role in creating cookies that are soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet.

• Unsalted Butter
• Granulated Sugar
• Vanilla Extract
• Egg Yolk
• All-Purpose Flour
• Baking Powder
• Salt

The unsalted butter is the flavor base and gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Granulated sugar provides sweetness and structure. A splash of vanilla extract deepens the flavor, while a single egg yolk keeps the dough moist without making too much. All-purpose flour binds everything together, and a bit of baking powder helps the cookies puff just slightly. A pinch of salt enhances every other flavor.

How To Make the Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugar

Use a fork or spoon to mix softened butter and sugar in a small bowl until well blended and creamy.

Step 2: Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla

Stir in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully combined. The dough will look smooth and glossy.

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms. It should pull away from the sides of the bowl and be easy to shape.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll dough into 6 to 8 small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently press each ball down to flatten slightly. For cut-outs, roll dough and cut into shapes.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. The edges should be just turning golden, and the centers will look slightly underdone but will set as they cool.

How to Serve and Store These Sugar Cookies

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 cookies, depending on size. They’re best enjoyed fresh, still slightly warm from the oven. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend their life, you can also freeze them for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temp or microwave briefly for a warm treat.

What to Serve With Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

Rich and velvety, hot chocolate is the ultimate companion for a freshly baked sugar cookie.

Chai Latte

Warm spices meet buttery sweetness when you pair these cookies with a frothy chai.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of strawberries or raspberries is a lovely contrast to the sweetness of sugar cookies.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Sandwich a scoop between two cookies for an easy dessert upgrade.

Fruit-Infused Water

Keep it light with cucumber or citrus-infused water for a refreshing balance.

Homemade Lemonade

A cold glass of lemonade adds a tangy twist to your cookie indulgence.

Espresso

For a more adult-friendly option, these cookies are wonderful alongside a strong shot of espresso.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If these homemade small batch sugar cookies sparked your sweet tooth, try these creative cookie recipes next:

• Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies Delight with fun pastel colors.
• Kentucky Butter Cake Cookies that melt in your mouth with caramelized edges.
• Peanut Butter Cowboy Cookies packed with oats and chocolate.
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles for a zesty creamy bite.
• Peggi’s Gigantic Crispy Peanut Butter Cookies if you’re in the mood for BIG cookie energy.

Save This Recipe For Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with classic rounds or get creative with shapes? Maybe added sprinkles?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other bake smarter.

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Conclusion

Homemade small batch sugar cookies are the perfect solution when you want something sweet and simple without baking a mountain of treats. They’re easy, quick, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy night in or a spontaneous craving, they never disappoint.

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