How to Make 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies in 3 Steps

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These delightful 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are the perfect solution! With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can whip up a batch of delicious, buttery cookies in under 30 minutes. Sugar cookies have a rich history, dating back to the 17th century when Protestant settlers in Pennsylvania’s Nazareth colony crafted early versions known as jumbles (Sugar Cookie History). These treats have evolved into the simple, beloved cookies we enjoy today.

This 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie recipe is not only incredibly easy but also egg-free, making it ideal for those with egg allergies. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Whether you’re baking for a quick snack or a festive gathering, this easy sugar cookie recipe will become a go-to favorite. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful cookies!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make these simple yet delicious cookies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour

Optional Ingredients

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
Sprinkles or additional sugar (for decoration)

Substitutions

Vegan: Swap unsalted butter for high-quality vegan butter to make these cookies plant-based
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly. Avoid almond flour, as it alters the consistency significantly.
Flavor Variations: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist.

Ingredient Notes

Butter: Use softened, room-temperature butter for easy creaming. High-quality butter enhances the flavor.
Sugar: Granulated white sugar provides the best texture and classic sweetness. Brown sugar can make cookies chewier but alters the traditional taste.
Flour: All-purpose flour is ideal. Measure by spooning into the cup and leveling to avoid dense cookies.

Equipment/Tools Needed

You don’t need fancy equipment for this easy cookie recipe. Here’s what you’ll use:

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer (optional; a whisk or wooden spoon works too)
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Oven

Alternatives

No electric mixer? Mix by hand with a whisk or wooden spoon, though it may require more effort.
No cookie scoop? Use a regular tablespoon to portion the dough evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear steps to create your 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies. This sugar cookie recipe is designed to be foolproof, with visual cues to guide you.

Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare your baking tray with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray for easy cookie release.
Cream together 1 cup softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer or 4-5 minutes by hand. This step is crucial for a tender sugar cookie recipe.
Add 2 cups all-purpose flour gradually, mixing until just combined. The dough will appear crumbly, which is normal for this easy cookie recipe with few ingredients.
Knead the dough with your hands to bring it together into a smooth ball. If it’s too dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk or water.

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls using your hands.

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
Flatten each ball slightly with your hand or the bottom of a glass to create a disc shape, about ¼ inch thick.

Gently press each ball with your hand or a glass to flatten into a disc.

Sprinkle with optional sugar or sprinkles for a decorative touch, if desired.
Bake for about 12-15 minutes, watching for golden edges to signal doneness
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Helpful Tips

Step 2: Creaming the butter and sugar thoroughly incorporates air, giving the cookies a light texture.
Step 4: If the dough feels too crumbly, don’t worry—kneading will help it come together.
Step 9: Check the cookies at 12 minutes to ensure they don’t overbake, as ovens vary.

Expert Tips & Variations

To make your 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies even better, try these expert tips:

Gently mix the dough until just blended to keep cookies soft and tender.. Overmixing can reduce tenderness.
Proper Butter Temperature: Ensure butter is softened but not melted. If too warm, cookies may spread excessively; if too cold, creaming will be difficult.
Scoop dough with a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly.
Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest for a personalized touch.
Festive Flair: Incorporate food coloring into the dough or use colored sugar for holiday-themed cookies.
Chill if Sticky: If the dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate for 15-30 minutes before shaping.
Chewy Texture: For softer, chewier cookies, reduce baking time by 1-2 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Cookies can become hard if baked too long. Watch for lightly golden edges.
Incorrect Measurements: Spoon and level flour to avoid a dense dough.
Skipping Kneading: The dough needs gentle kneading to come together properly.

Variations

Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for extra flavor.
Create indulgent sandwich cookies by spreading jam or frosting between pairs.
Spiced Cookies: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm flavor.

Nutritional Information

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one cookie, based on a yield of 24 cookies:

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	~127 kcal
Fat	~7.75 g
Carbohydrates	~13.5 g
Protein	~1 g

Health Benefits

Butter: Provides richness and fat-soluble vitamins like A and E, though it’s high in saturated fat.
Flour: All-purpose flour offers carbohydrates for energy, but whole wheat flour can add fiber if substituted (texture may change).
Sugar: Adds sweetness for an enjoyable treat, best consumed in moderation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Shelf Life: Cookies stay fresh for 3-5 days at room temperature or up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but for a warm treat, microwave for 5-10 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

These 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are versatile and pair well with various accompaniments:

Side Dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad for a light, refreshing contrast.
- Ice cream for a decadent dessert pairing.
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries for a festive touch.
- Yogurt parfait for a balanced snack option.
Beverage Pairings: Serve with milk, hot chocolate, coffee, or tea to complement the sweet, buttery flavor.

For a stunning presentation, arrange cookies on a decorative platter or stack them in a gift tin for sharing.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, this 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie recipe is naturally egg-free, making it perfect for those with egg allergies or dietary restrictions.
How do I make the cookies softer or chewier?
For a chewier texture, reduce the baking time by 1-2 minutes, ensuring the cookies are slightly underdone when removed from the oven.
Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or citrus zest to enhance the flavor of this easy cookie recipe with few ingredients.
What if my dough is too crumbly?
If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk or water while kneading to help it come together smoothly
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but it’s a great option for gluten-free diets.

This 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves homemade cookies but wants a quick, hassle-free option. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can create buttery, sweet cookies that are perfect for any occasion, from casual snacks to holiday gatherings. Its simplicity, versatility, and delicious results make it a must-try for bakers of all levels. Grab your ingredients and bake a batch of these easy sugar cookies today—you won’t be disappointed!