Sugar Cookies
Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies (No Chill, Easy Recipe!)
There’s nothing quite like the sweet simplicity of a classic sugar cookie — soft, buttery, and golden around the edges with a perfectly chewy center. These homemade sugar cookies are quick, cozy, and perfect for any occasion — from the holidays to an afternoon baking session just because.
The best part? You don’t need to chill the dough, roll it out, or use any fancy ingredients. Just one bowl, simple pantry staples, and less than 20 minutes from start to finish.
If you’re craving an easy no-chill sugar cookie recipe that’s soft, sweet, and completely foolproof — this is the one.
Why You’ll Love These Sugar Cookies
Soft and chewy: No dry, crumbly sugar cookies here — just tender centers and lightly crisp edges.
No chilling required: Mix, scoop, bake, and enjoy — that’s it.
One-bowl recipe: Easy cleanup and minimal prep.
Customizable: Add festive sprinkles, a glaze, or even dip them in chocolate.
Small batch: Makes 6–8 cookies — perfect when you want a treat without tons of leftovers.
These cookies are everything you love about the classic version, but easier and faster.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into these soft and chewy sugar cookies:
1/3 cup sugar – Adds the perfect sweetness and crisp edges.
3 tablespoons butter – Use vegan butter or regular; either creates a soft, rich texture.
2 tablespoons milk – Helps bind the dough while keeping it moist.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – The key to that classic sugar cookie flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Keeps the cookies light and fluffy.
2/3 cup + 3–4 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Gives structure and that soft bite.
How to Make the Best Sugar Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Stir in the nondairy milk and vanilla extract.
Add the dry ingredients: Mix in baking powder, then fold in the flour until a soft dough forms.
Shape the cookies: Scoop or roll into balls and place them on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the edges look just set.
Cool: Let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
These cookies are soft when they come out of the oven and will firm up slightly as they cool — perfect for that chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies
Don’t overbake: Pull them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft.
Want thicker cookies? Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes before baking.
For crispier edges: Add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the dough.
Flavor twist: Try almond extract instead of vanilla, or add a touch of cinnamon for a cozy holiday flavor.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
Sugar cookies are the ultimate blank canvas. Try these easy variations to make them your own:
Sprinkle Sugar Cookies: Roll the dough balls in festive sprinkles before baking.
Glazed Sugar Cookies: Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk for an easy glaze.
Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate and top with crushed candy canes or coconut.
Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright twist.
Whether you keep them plain or dress them up for the holidays, these sugar cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.
How to Store
Once cooled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months — just thaw before serving.
The dough also freezes well! Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen — just add a minute or two to the bake time.
The Perfect Holiday Baking Cookie
Soft sugar cookies are always a favorite on Christmas cookie trays, but they’re just as good year-round. The simple flavor pairs perfectly with cocoa, coffee, or tea — and they make a great base for decorating with icing or sprinkles.
If you’re baking for the holidays, birthdays, or simply craving something sweet and nostalgic, these easy sugar cookies are the perfect go-to.
Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe
Makes: 6–8 cookies (depending on size)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 9–11 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
1/3 cup sugar
3 tablespoons butter (vegan or regular)
2 tablespoons nondairy milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
2/3 cup + 3–4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix butter and sugar until smooth. Add milk and vanilla.
Stir in baking powder, then add flour until a soft dough forms.
Roll dough into balls and place on the sheet about 2 inches apart.
Bake 9–11 minutes or until edges are set and lightly golden.
Cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Enjoy your soft, buttery sugar cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of cocoa.
