3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Quick and easy sugar cookies made with just three pantry ingredients—no eggs required! These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are sweet, buttery, and perfect for any occasion. Their simplicity makes them a go-to treat, whether for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they can be customized with sprinkles to add a fun touch!

Why You’ll Love This 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient.

• Super Simple Recipe: With just three ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to follow.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain or dress them up with sprinkles for festive occasions.
• Perfectly Buttery Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a rich taste that everyone loves.
• No Eggs Needed: Ideal for those who might have egg allergies or prefer egg-free baking.
• Great for Beginners: A perfect starting point for new bakers looking to build their skills.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes the baking process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Handheld electric mixer
• Cookie scoop (optional)
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Handheld electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth butter-sugar mixture quickly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and flavor of your cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• ⅔ cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
• Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)

How to Make 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set the oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and ⅔ cup granulated sugar until well combined. The mixture will be slightly gritty—this is completely normal.

Step 3: Incorporate the Flour

Add the all-purpose flour to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined. If you choose to use vanilla extract, blend it in at this stage.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using either a cookie scoop or your hands.

Step 5: Coat with Sugar

Roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, lightly coating them. Then place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Flatten & Decorate

Press each dough ball slightly with the bottom of a measuring cup or glass to achieve about 3/16-inch thickness. If you’re using sprinkles, add them on top now and press lightly so they adhere.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 14-16 minutes until the edges and bottoms are just slightly golden.

Step 8: Cool

Remove from the oven and let your cookies rest on the baking sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Enjoy your delightful 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies!

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Serving 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be as simple or creative as you like. These cookies are versatile and can fit various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that satisfies every sweet tooth.

Decorated for Celebrations

• Use colored icing or themed sprinkles to decorate the cookies for birthdays, holidays, or other special events.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Create delightful sandwich cookies by adding a layer of frosting or jam between two sugar cookies for an extra treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a platter with other desserts like brownies and fruit for an appealing dessert display.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

Gift Boxes

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

To ensure your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies turn out just right, pay attention to these essential tips.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure the correct quantities of butter, sugar, and flour.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with sugar, creating a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape.
• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; remove them when the edges are slightly golden to prevent over-baking.
• Store Properly: After cooling, store your cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and texture.
• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding different extracts like almond or citrus zest to customize the flavor profile of your sugar cookies.

Best Side Dishes for 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

While these sugar cookies shine on their own, they can also be complemented by various side dishes. Here are some delicious options that pair well with them.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a light contrast to the sweetness of sugar cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with strawberries, bananas, and pretzels makes for an interactive dessert experience.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream enhances the buttery flavor of the sugar cookies beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides a savory option that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage like coffee or tea complements the cookie’s sweetness while offering warmth and comfort.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Add bite-sized cupcakes in various flavors for guests who want something different alongside their cookie.
7. Yogurt Parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious option that pairs well with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Using too much flour: Measure flour correctly by spooning and leveling it. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Not creaming butter and sugar properly: Ensure you beat the butter and sugar until just combined; over-mixing can affect texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven to 325°F for optimal baking. Baking at higher temperatures can cause uneven cooking.
• Making dough balls too small: Roll dough into 1-inch balls to ensure they bake evenly and have the right texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• Layer with parchment paper if stacking.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat single cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a pan over low heat, covering it briefly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make gluten-free 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s a one-to-one substitute specifically designed for baking.

Can I add flavors to my 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like almond or lemon, or add spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

What is the best way to decorate 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies?

You can use rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils before baking. For a festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top after they cool.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies stay fresh in an airtight container for about one week at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not just simple; they’re also deliciously customizable! Whether you choose sprinkles or add your favorite flavors, these cookies make a delightful treat for any occasion. Try them out and enjoy their sweet buttery goodness!