Classic 4-Ingredient Iced Sugar Cookies
These classic 4-ingredient iced sugar cookies are simple to make and perfect for any occasion. The dough comes together quickly and the cookies can be decorated to your heart's content.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- plastic wrap
- oven
- baking sheets
- parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- rolling pin
- cookie cutters
- wire rack
- small bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Optional Icing and Decoration
- 1 cup confectioners' sugar Optional for icing:
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (or water) Optional for icing:
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract Optional for icing:
- Food coloring Optional for icing:
- Sprinkles Optional for icing:
Instructions
Cookie Preparation
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg until well combined, scraping down the sides.
- Gradually add flour, mixing on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide dough in half, flatten each into a disk, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Baking and Decorating
- On a floured surface, roll dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut shapes with cookie cutters, and transfer to prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For icing, whisk confectioners' sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth, adding food coloring if desired.
- Once cookies are cool, spread or pipe icing, add sprinkles, and let set before storing.
Notes
For best results, ensure your butter is properly softened. When rolling out the dough, a lightly floured surface prevents sticking without adding too much extra flour. The chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking, and for easier handling.