Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of the ultimate treat that brings together just the right balance of softness, sweetness, and that irresistible crinkled look, you’re about to meet your new favorite: Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! These cookies are everything you hope for in a classic sugar cookie but elevated to a level that makes you want to bake batch after batch. The blend of granulated and brown sugar, plus the tender bite from softened butter, creates a cookie that’s delightfully chewy inside with edges that offer a gentle crisp. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll keep coming back for more of these beautifully crinkled gems that feel like a warm hug in cookie form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for these cookies is as simple as it gets, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! From the sugars that build the sweet base to the baking powder and soda that give the cookies their lift and texture, every ingredient works harmoniously to create magic in your oven.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create those signature crackled tops.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and moisture for softness and chewiness.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed): Infuses a subtle caramel flavor and keeps the cookies tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the cookie’s structure.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the cookies their body and chew.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps create lift for a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Promotes browning and additional softness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts flavor complexity.
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling: Creates a sparkle and delightful crunch on the outside.
How to Make Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is ready to give these cookies the perfect bake from the moment they go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or just lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter. Using an electric mixer or a good old whisk, cream them together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture and lift.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is well blended. The egg acts as a binder, while the vanilla adds that lovely aroma and depth of flavor you can’t resist.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly dispersed so your cookies rise perfectly and evenly.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be gentle here; overmixing can toughen your cookies, and we want them soft, sweet, and perfectly crinkled, not dense.
Step 6: Form and Sugar Coat the Dough Balls
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough, then roll each piece into a ball. Roll those balls generously in the extra granulated sugar—this creates the signature sparkle and a bit of crunch on the outside that contrasts beautifully with the chewy inside.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread. Pop them into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are just turning golden yellow. Don’t worry if the centers look slightly underbaked—that’s perfect! They will set beautifully as they cool on the tray.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This short wait allows them to firm up just enough while still remaining wonderfully chewy.
How to Serve Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled!
Garnishes
While these cookies shine on their own, a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of melted white or dark chocolate can elevate their charm. For some seasonal sparkle, try sprinkling colored sugar on top before baking, so the crinkles catch the light and add extra visual appeal.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages like rich hot chocolate, creamy lattes, or a spiced chai tea. Their sweetness balances out the bitterness or spice without overpowering. Alternatively, serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that’s just next level.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gifts, arrange the cookies in a decorative tin with parchment separators, or stack them in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. You could even sandwich some with a layer of cream cheese frosting or nutella for an indulgent twist. The crinkled tops truly make them picture-perfect, so let that texture be your star.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate texture without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. For dough, scoop and roll balls, then freeze on a tray before bagging to bake fresh cookies whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
If you want your cookies warm and gooey again, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or heat briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked chewiness, making them feel like they just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid making the cookies too salty. Unsalted butter gives you more control over the flavor balance.
Why do my cookies sometimes turn out flat?
Flat cookies often happen when the dough is too warm or if you overmix it. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted and handle the dough gently once you combine the wet and dry ingredients.
How do I get the perfect crinkles on top?
Rolling the dough balls generously in granulated sugar right before baking is key to those beautiful crinkles. The sugar cracks as the cookie spreads in the oven, creating that characteristic crinkled texture.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add a zest of lemon or orange, a pinch of cinnamon, or fold in chocolate chips or sprinkles. Just be mindful that adding mix-ins may slightly change the cookie texture or baking time.
Are these cookies suitable for making cookie sandwiches?
Yes, their soft and chewy texture makes them excellent for sandwich cookies. Fill them with frosting, ganache, or jam for a delightful treat that’s both nostalgic and fancy.
Final Thoughts
These Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! truly capture the heart of classic cookie baking with a joyful twist. They are simple enough for beginners and beloved by seasoned bakers for their delightful texture and charming appearance. I can’t recommend baking a batch (or two) enough—they’re the kind of cookies that bring smiles, warmth, and happy memories. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma of freshly baked bliss!
Print
Chewy Sugar Cookies: Soft, Sweet, and Perfectly Crinkled! Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Chewy Sugar Cookies are soft, sweet, and perfectly crinkled, making them an ideal treat for any occasion. With a tender, chewy center and slightly crisp edges, they offer the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, these cookies are sure to become your go-to recipe for classic sugar cookies.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For Rolling
- Extra granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cream Sugars and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter. Use an electric mixer or whisk to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which will help create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until well incorporated, ensuring even flavor throughout the dough.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and chewy rather than tough.
- Form Dough Balls: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to give the cookies a sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, keeping them soft and chewy.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set fully before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain their chewy texture.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
- Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for the best texture.
- Do not overbake; the cookies will continue cooking as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 24 g)
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: chewy sugar cookies, soft sugar cookies, classic sugar cookies, easy sugar cookies, crinkled sugar cookies
