Indulge in sweetness with the best sugar cookie recipe! Create irresistibly soft and chewy cookies from scratch. Expert tips included for perfect results!
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare multiple baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Using an electric mixer and a large bowl (or stand mixer), place the softened butter and sugar. Beat them together on high speed until the mixture turns light and fluffy, which should take around 3-5 minutes (this step is important, so don't rush it).
Reduce the mixer's speed to low and add the eggs and pure vanilla extract, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
While keeping the mixer on low, gradually incorporate the flour mixture. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, and beat the mixture for an additional 30 seconds.
Prepare a small bowl with extra sugar for coating the cookies. Use a cookie scoop to portion out the sugar cookie dough, then roll it into 1-inch balls. Treat the dough gently to maintain its softness and delicacy; avoid excessive handling.
Roll each ball in the sugar bowl to coat, and then place them on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
Utilize the bottom of a drinking glass to gently press down on each ball until they reach a thickness of ⅓ to ½ inch.
Bake each batch of sugar cookies for 9-11 minutes, observing until the edges take on a slight golden hue and the centers are just set.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before proceeding to decorate them with the glaze.