Name: One-bowl Small-batch Sugar Cookies (3 Ways)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup salted butter (softened); 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/8 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/8 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup powdered sugar, granulated sugar, or sprinkles (for rolling, if desired)

There’s something undeniably charming about sugar cookies. They’re versatile, easy to make, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert to whip up for a gathering or a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these One-bowl Small-batch Sugar Cookies (3 Ways) are perfect. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll wonder why you ever made cookies any other way.

Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, and the joy of indulging in a soft, chewy treat. These cookies are not only simple to prepare but also customizable! You can choose between classic, lemon zest, or almond-flavored versions. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

– Quick and easy: With just one bowl and a few ingredients, you can have cookies ready in no time.
– Minimal cleanup: No need for multiple bowls or appliances. Everything mixes together seamlessly.
– Versatile: Make them classic, or switch things up with flavors and toppings.
– Perfect for small batches: Ideal for when you only want a few cookies, but still want to satisfy that sweet tooth.

What You’ll Need

1/3 cup (76g) salted butter – softened, for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1/3 cup + 1 tablespoon (80g) granulated sugar – sweetening the deal!
1 large egg yolk – for richness and binding.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – to enhance the flavor.
1/8 teaspoon almond extract – optional, but adds a lovely depth.
3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon (98g) all-purpose flour – measured accurately for the best results.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda – for the perfect rise.
1/8 teaspoon salt – to balance the sweetness.
1/3 cup powdered sugar, granulated sugar, or sprinkles – for rolling, if desired.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Handheld electric mixer (optional but helpful) – simplifies the mixing process.
Mixing bowl – for combining all ingredients.
Baking sheet – lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cookie scoop or spoon – for portioning the dough.
Cooling rack – to let your cookies cool perfectly.

Make One-bowl Small-batch Sugar Cookies (3 Ways): A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use your handheld electric mixer (or a whisk if you’re feeling adventurous) to cream them together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Extracts

Next, add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Shape and Roll

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. If you like, roll the balls in powdered sugar, granulated sugar, or sprinkles for an extra touch of sweetness and color.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cookie balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before enjoying!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Spring: Add lemon zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Summer: Incorporate fresh berries into the dough for a fruity twist.
Fall: Spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy autumn touch.
Winter: Use peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive flair.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Experiment with different extracts, such as coconut or maple, to find your favorite flavor.
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!).
For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the dough!

Save It for Later

If you love this recipe as much as we do, don’t forget to save it! Whether you bookmark this page or print it out, you’ll want to keep this easy One-bowl Small-batch Sugar Cookies (3 Ways) recipe handy for those moments when the craving strikes.

Your Top Questions

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double each ingredient for a larger batch. Just make sure you have a larger mixing bowl to accommodate the increased volume.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

No problem! You can omit the almond extract or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract for a delightful vanilla flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden. They may look a bit soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.

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See You at the Table

These One-bowl Small-batch Sugar Cookies (3 Ways) are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With their simplicity and deliciousness, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy some delightful cookies! Happy baking!