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3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

Quick and easy butter cookies made with just three ingredients that bake in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute treats or school lunches.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened Use vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar Helps with a tender crumb.
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour For gluten-free diets, opt for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Optional Enhancements
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Recommended for depth.
  • 1 pinch Salt Balances sweetness.
  • as desired Colored sprinkles For fun, optional.
  • as desired Ground cinnamon Optional for spiced cookies.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Beat softened butter and sugar together until pale and slightly fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt until combined.
  4. Add the flour in two additions and fold with a spatula or mix on low just until a soft dough forms.
  5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls, placing them 2 inches apart on the sheet.
  6. Flatten each ball gently to about 1/4–1/3 inch thick, pressing sprinkles into the centers if using.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set and tops look matte, while centers should still be slightly soft.
  2. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 7 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.