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3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies are proof that sometimes, the simplest recipes bring the greatest joy. With only butter, sugar, and flour, you can make cookies that melt in your mouth and fill your kitchen with a cozy, homemade scent.

This easy sugar cookie recipe is more than a quick treat. Anyone can make this classic recipe at home, no matter their baking experience.

These cookies are perfect for everyone and make an easy dessert, gift, or snack with tea. Simple baking doesn’t get much easier than this, and you won’t believe how delicious just three ingredients can be. This sugar cookie recipe is also very quick, ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Why 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies Are So Popular

The beauty of 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies is in their simplicity and speed. With just three pantry staples, you can make easy cookies that taste as delicious as bakery treats. There’s no need for specialty tools or hard-to-find ingredients. These cookies come out tender, buttery, and delicately sweet every time.

You can use granulated sugar for a traditional result, or try powdered sugar for an even softer texture. Many bakers like to add a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for extra aroma and flavor in this easy dessert recipe.

This sugar cookie recipe is perfect for baking with kids, busy weekdays, or a last-minute sweet treat, making it a must-have for every home baker.

History of Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies have a long and sweet history, tracing back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania. The original versions used basic ingredients much like our modern easy sugar cookie recipes—just flour, sugar, and butter. Over time, bakers have tried adding brown sugar for a caramel flavor or swapping in some peanut butter for a nutty twist.

Today, sugar cookies come in many variations, but the original simple sugar cookie recipe is still a favorite for its ease and versatility.

Dusted with powdered sugar, flavored with vanilla, or decorated for holidays, these cookies show how simple baking can be magical.

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

To make these classic cookies, you only need:

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar (or powdered sugar for a softer cookie)
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour

Optional for extra flavor:

1 tsp vanilla extract
Substitute a portion of granulated sugar with brown sugar for depth
Add a spoonful of peanut butter for a unique twist

This easy cookie recipe shows just how flexible the ingredient sugar cookie recipe can be.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

You’ll love how easy it is to make these cookies—ready in just about 30 minutes:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream together the butter and sugar (or powdered sugar for a tender texture) in a bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. If using, add vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Gradually add the flour to the mixture, blending until a soft dough forms. For a fun variation, mix in a little brown sugar or peanut butter at this stage.
Roll the dough into small balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Flatten each with a fork for that classic look.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. These cookies bake fast, so watch closely.
Cool completely. The cookies will set as they cool, becoming perfectly crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth.

Nutritional Information

Each 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookie (if you make about 24 cookies) has approximately:

Calories: 95
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: <1g

For a lighter twist on this easy dessert recipe, try using a blend of granulated and brown sugar or swap in a dairy-free butter alternative.

Why You’ll Love These 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

This ingredient sugar cookie recipe is the very definition of simplicity and satisfaction. With no fancy steps or tools required, you can have a batch of classic cookies ready in just 30 minutes. Their balance of crispy edges and tender centers make them a hit for any occasion.

You’ll also love how easily this easy sugar cookie recipe adapts to what you have at home. Want a little more flavor? Add vanilla extract or try rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar before baking. Love peanut butter? Swirl some in for a nutty twist.

The options are endless, which is why this is one of the best easy cookie recipes you’ll ever make.

Tips for the Best 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

Use quality butter: Real, unsalted butter gives the best flavor and texture.
Try powdered sugar: For softer cookies, replace granulated sugar with powdered sugar.
Cream thoroughly: Beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy for the best results.
Don’t overmix: Once the flour is added, mix until just combined.
Flavor boost: Add vanilla extract or even a pinch of salt for extra depth.
Baking time: Watch the cookies closely and pull them when the edges turn golden.

Simple Ways to Customize Your Cookies

Mix in vanilla extract for a classic bakery-style aroma.
Swap a portion of sugar for brown sugar for a richer taste.
Add a spoonful of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
Roll in powdered sugar before baking for a delicate finish.
Top with colored sprinkles or a drizzle of chocolate for a festive touch.
Use cookie cutters for fun shapes, or flatten the dough balls with a glass for a rustic look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cold butter: Softened butter creams better for the perfect texture.
Too much flour: Measure flour carefully to avoid dry cookies.
Overbaking: Remove cookies when just golden—overbaked cookies lose their melt-in-your-mouth appeal.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are lovely with coffee, tea, or milk. They’re also wonderful as the base for other easy dessert recipes—top with a scoop of ice cream, fresh fruit, or sandwich them with peanut butter for a delicious twist.

Storing and Freezing 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. The dough can also be frozen in balls—just bake from frozen, adding a minute to the baking time. Baked cookies freeze beautifully for up to two months, making this an ideal ingredient sugar cookie recipe for easy dessert recipes and meal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes! Powdered sugar will give you an even softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture—try it if you like a more delicate cookie.

Can I add vanilla extract?

Absolutely. A teaspoon of vanilla extract is a delicious addition that’s popular in many easy cookie recipes.

Can I make these with brown sugar?

Yes, you can replace some or all of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a chewier, richer flavor.

Can I add peanut butter to the dough?

Definitely! Swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter to add a nutty taste and a bit of extra chew.

How fast can I make these cookies?

This ingredient sugar cookie recipe is done in about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for easy dessert recipes and last-minute cravings.

Are these cookies good for decorating?

Yes! Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or top with festive sprinkles.

The Joy of 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies

Few things are more satisfying than whipping up an easy sugar cookie recipe with just three ingredients. The joy of baking these cookies isn’t just in the quick prep time, but in the warm, buttery flavor and the chance to get creative with flavors and add-ins like vanilla extract, brown sugar, or even peanut butter.

It’s no wonder this is a top pick among easy cookie recipes for both beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Golden 3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies arranged on a baking sheet

Conclusion

3-Ingredient Sugar Cookies are the ultimate easy dessert recipe. Just three ingredients and 30 minutes deliver buttery, tender cookies every time.

Whether you stick to the basics or add chocolate chips, vanilla extract, brown sugar, peanut butter, or try a gluten free version, this ingredient sugar cookie recipe is sure to become your new favorite for all occasions. Just don’t forget to cool completely before enjoying!

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