Chewy Sugar Cookies

These Chewy Sugar Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Their buttery texture and delightful chewiness make them irresistible. Plus, without the need for chilling the dough, you can whip them up in no time. Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven, or share them with friends and loved ones for a sweet surprise!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With no rolling or cutting required, these cookies come together quickly.
• Deliciously Soft: The combination of butter and egg yolk creates a tender, chewy texture.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize with optional almond extract or add sprinkles for a fun twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for holidays, parties, or simply as an everyday treat.
• No Chilling Time: Bake immediately after mixing, saving you time and effort.

Tools and Preparation

To create your chewy sugar cookies efficiently, gather your tools before starting. This ensures a smooth baking process and helps you manage your time well.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or baking mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together until fluffy, ensuring the best texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps you keep track of dry and wet ingredients for better mixing.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet allows even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

These chewy sugar cookies are buttery, soft, and perfectly tender. It’s a drop-style cookie – so instead of rolling out the dough and cutting it into shapes, the dough is formed into balls and rolled in sugar. There’s no chilling involved, and you end up with delicious sugar cookies that are chewy and oh so flavorful.

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (344 grams)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (226 grams) (softened but not starting to melt)
• 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar (267 grams) (for the dough)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 large egg yolk (just the yolk, do not use the entire egg)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For Rolling

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams) (for rolling the cookies in)

How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (180℃). Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter and 1⅓ cups of granulated sugar until fluffy and light in color.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

To the butter mixture:
1. Beat in one whole egg, one egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

With your mixer on low speed:
1. Gradually blend in the flour mixture into the butter mixture until fully incorporated. Expect a thick dough consistency.

Step 6: Prepare for Rolling

Pour the ⅓ cup of granulated sugar onto a plate:
1. Form about one tablespoon of dough into balls (approximately 1 ounce each).
2. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them on the lined cookie sheet about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake one sheet at a time:
1. Place on the middle rack of your oven for about 9-11 minutes or until tops look set.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Let cookies cool on the lined sheet for at least ten minutes:
1. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying!

How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies

Chewy sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep things classic or add a twist, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Milk

• Pair each cookie with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate classic combination. The creaminess of the milk balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Make ice cream sandwiches using your favorite ice cream between two chewy sugar cookies. Choose flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or even fruit sorbets for a refreshing dessert.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie and sprinkle with fresh berries for a charming and delicious presentation. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper. This adds a rich chocolatey flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

Decorated with Sprinkles

• Roll your cookie balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a fun and festive touch. This is especially great for celebrations or holidays.

Served Warm

• Serve your chewy sugar cookies warm right out of the oven for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience. They’ll be soft and comforting, perfect for any gathering.

How to Perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies

Perfecting chewy sugar cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal texture every time.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create that light and fluffy texture when mixed with sugar.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour correctly. Over-measuring can lead to dry cookies.
• Avoid overmixing: Mix just until combined when adding flour to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make them chewy instead of soft.
• Don’t skip the egg yolk: Using an extra egg yolk adds moisture and richness, enhancing the chewiness of your cookies.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should look set but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Let them cool properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack, as they continue cooking slightly from residual heat.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Sugar Cookies

Chewy sugar cookies can be complemented by some delightful side dishes that enhance their charm. Here are some tasty options to consider serving alongside your cookies.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds natural sweetness and complements the flavors of your chewy sugar cookies perfectly.

2. Vanilla Yogurt
   Creamy vanilla yogurt offers a smooth contrast to the texture of the cookies, creating a delightful combination that’s both satisfying and light.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Melted chocolate served with fresh fruit or pretzels allows guests to dip their chewy sugar cookies into rich chocolate for an indulgent treat.

4. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or tea provides a comforting pairing that enhances the flavors of your chewy sugar cookies while offering a cozy vibe.

5. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzling caramel sauce over your chewy sugar cookies creates an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite even more decadent.

6. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can create their own sundaes using their favorite toppings along with chewy sugar cookies as edible spoons or sides!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chewy sugar cookies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Avoid these mistakes for perfect cookies every time.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened and your egg is at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a less chewy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. Too much flour will make the cookies dry and crumbly.
• Overmixing the dough: Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
• Skipping the sugar coating: Rolling the dough balls in sugar adds a delightful sweetness and crunch to your cookies. Don’t skip this step for that classic chewy sugar cookie look.
• Baking on an ungreased sheet: Although parchment paper is great, ensure it’s not too worn out. Using fresh parchment ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chewy sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• If you prefer to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating Chewy Sugar Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350℉ (180℃) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing cookies inside for about 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get my Chewy Sugar Cookies extra soft?

To enhance softness, ensure you use enough butter and don’t overbake your cookies. Remove them from the oven once the tops appear set.

Can I make Chewy Sugar Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

What variations can I try with Chewy Sugar Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles to customize your chewy sugar cookies easily!

How long do Chewy Sugar Cookies last?

When stored properly, chewy sugar cookies stay fresh at room temperature for about one week or up to three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These chewy sugar cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them plain or customize them with various add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Give this recipe a try and delight in making your own batch of sweet treats!