Best Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
If you’re looking for the best chewy sugar cookies, you’ve just found the perfect recipe! These soft, buttery, and slightly crisp-edged sugar cookies are made with simple ingredients and have the perfect chew in every bite. No chilling required—just mix, bake, and enjoy!
🛒 Ingredients for the Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
To make the ultimate chewy sugar cookies, you’ll need:
🧈 Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
🥚 Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
- 3 tablespoons milk
🎉 Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
🍽️ Substitutions for the Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Dairy-free: Use vegan butter and almond milk.
- Gluten-free: Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
- No almond extract? Just use extra vanilla!
- Less sugar? Reduce by ¼ cup for a milder sweetness.
👩🍳 How to Make the Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
Follow these easy steps for perfect sugar cookies:
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Whisk dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3️⃣ Cream butter & sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4️⃣ Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, almond extract (if using), and milk.
5️⃣ Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6️⃣ Roll the dough: Scoop out 1.5-inch balls and roll them in granulated sugar.
7️⃣ Bake: Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
8️⃣ Cool: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
🌟 Mix-ins for Extra Flavor
- Sprinkles – for a funfetti twist
- Lemon zest – for a citrusy kick
- Cinnamon sugar – for a snickerdoodle vibe
- White chocolate chips – for added sweetness
✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Don’t overbake! They’ll look soft but set as they cool.
- Use room temperature butter for the best texture.
- Roll in extra sugar for a slight crunch on the outside.
- For extra chewiness, add an extra egg yolk!
🥶 Storage Instructions for Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months—just bake straight from frozen!
- Reheating: Microwave for 10 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.
🔄 Recipe Variations for Chewy Sugar Cookies
- Brown Sugar Cookies: Replace ½ cup granulated sugar with brown sugar.
- Chocolate Sugar Cookies: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder for a rich twist.
- Frosted Sugar Cookies: Top with buttercream or royal icing.
- Pumpkin Spice Sugar Cookies: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon & nutmeg.
❓ FAQs About the Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
Why are my cookies not chewy?
Overbaking or too much flour can make cookies cakey. Stick to 8-10 minutes!
Do I need to chill the dough?
No! This recipe is no-chill, but you can chill for 30 minutes for extra thick cookies.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and bake in batches.
What’s the best sugar for rolling?
Granulated sugar works best, but try sanding sugar for extra crunch!
