Soft Sugar Cookies

Step 1

Set the oven to 350°F and wait until the indicator light or beep tells you it has finished preheating, about 10 minutes. While it heats, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2

Place the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat them together for 2–3 minutes until the mixture looks pale and fluffy, like thick frosting.

Step 3

Crack the egg into a small bowl, then add it to the butter mixture along with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for 1 minute until well combined and smooth.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups all-purpose flour and 0.25 teaspoon baking powder until no lumps remain.

Step 5

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until no dry flour streaks remain and the dough is soft and uniform.

Step 6

Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheets using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, spacing each cookie 2 inches apart so they have room to spread.

Step 7

Place both baking sheets in the 350°F oven and bake for 11–13 minutes until the edges are set and just beginning to turn light golden, but the centers still look soft and pale.

Step 8

Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies sit on the hot sheets for 5 minutes — they will continue to cook slightly and firm up.

Step 9

Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack or clean countertop and let them cool completely for at least 10 minutes before eating. They will soften as they cool.