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Soft Frosted Sugar Cookies

A warm, melt-in-your-mouth holiday classic that is easy to make and delightful to eat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Ingredients
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Gives structure while keeping cookies tender.
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder A gentle lift for softness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda Balances texture.
  • 0.5 teaspoon fine salt Enhances sweetness.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened For rich, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar The right amount of sweetness.
  • 1 large egg Adds tenderness and richness.
  • 1 large egg yolk Adds tenderness and richness.
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract The soul of these cookies.
  • 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed) To make the dough easy to handle.
Frosting Ingredients
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 pinch salt
  • food coloring (if desired)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  4. Add the egg, extra yolk, and vanilla; beat until combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix on low until just combined. Add milk if the dough seems too stiff.
  6. Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you want taller, softer cookies.
  7. Scoop or roll dough into 1-inch balls, place 2 inches apart on the baking sheet, and lightly press to flatten slightly.
Baking
  1. Bake 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just set but not brown.
  2. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Frosting
  1. Beat butter until smooth, slowly add powdered sugar, then vanilla and milk until glossy and spreadable.
  2. Spread on cooled cookies and decorate as you like.

Notes

For a healthier option, reduce sugar by 1/4 cup and balance with more vanilla. Store cookies with a slice of bread to keep them soft.