Easy Vanilla Sugar Cookies with Frosting
These simple vanilla sugar cookies are a favorite base for many bakers because the dough is easy to work with and does not spread in the oven. The recipe includes a easy frosting that can be colored and piped onto the cooled cookies for a finished look.
Instructions
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Mix Wet Ingredients
Combine butter and sugar in a stand mixer or large bowl. Beat until creamy and well-combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until completely combined. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. -
Combine Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until completely combined. -
Chill Dough
Divide the dough in half and wrap each piece in plastic wrap into a disk shape. Refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours. -
Roll and Cut
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dust a surface with flour, place a dough disk on it, and lightly flour the top. Roll out to 1/8 inch for thin cookies or 1/4 inch for thick cookies. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer to the baking sheet. -
Bake Cookies
Bake at 350°F for 9-10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on the baking sheet before frosting. -
Make Frosting
Combine powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined. Add more milk one teaspoon at a time until thick but pipeable, or add more powder sugar if too thin. Add food coloring if desired. -
Frost and Decorate
Transfer frosting to a piping bag. Pipe onto cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles if desired. Allow frosting to harden before serving.
Tips
For thinner cookies, roll the dough to 1/8 inch; for softer cookies, roll to 1/4 inch. Ensure cookies are completely cooled before frosting.
Video
“How to Make Simple Versatile Sugar Cookies” by Sugar Spun Run, watch on YouTube.
About this recipe
This sugar cookie dough is versatile, allowing you to roll it thin for crisp edges or thicker for a softer bite. The vanilla flavor pairs well with the light, sweet frosting, which can be customized with food coloring and sprinkles. Serve these cookies at parties or keep them in an airtight container for a quick treat later.
