We absolutely love sharing timeless family recipes, and Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe holds a special place in our hearts. Passed down through generations, it’s that perfect blend of buttery goodness and simple ingredients that evokes warm memories of holiday baking and cozy kitchens.
These classic sugar cookies are incredibly easy to make yet deliver a delightful crunch with just the right sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a quiet afternoon treat, we’ll guide you through our foolproof steps to create cookies that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
As we dive into our cherished Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe, we start by assembling these straightforward, high-quality ingredients in the order they’ll be used. This classic blend creates the buttery goodness that has delighted families for generations.
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to ensure a light, airy texture
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Fresh for optimal rise
- ½ teaspoon salt – Fine sea salt to balance the sweetness
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature for easy creaming
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Pure cane sugar for that signature sparkle and crunch
- 2 large eggs – At room temperature to help incorporate air and moisture
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Pure extract for authentic, warm flavor notes
With these carefully measured components, we’re set to craft cookies that evoke those nostalgic holiday memories. Stay tuned as we move to the preparation steps next.
Equipment Needed
To bring Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe to life after gathering our simple, high-quality ingredients, we need the right tools for seamless preparation and baking. This ensures our cookies turn out with that perfect buttery texture and nostalgic flavor every time.
Here’s a detailed list of the essential equipment, organized by category for easy reference:
- Mixing Bowls: We recommend two medium-sized stainless steel or glass mixing bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet. This keeps our workflow organized and prevents cross-contamination.
- Measuring Tools: Accurate measurements are key to replicating Aunt Mary’s classic taste, so use a set of dry measuring cups (for flour and sugar) and measuring spoons (for baking powder, salt, and vanilla). Opt for ones with clear markings to avoid any guesswork.
- Electric Mixer: A handheld electric mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment works best for creaming the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. It saves time and ensures a light, fluffy dough that evokes those cherished holiday memories.
- Baking Sheets: Choose two or three rimmed baking sheets made of heavy-duty aluminum for even heat distribution. This helps our cookies bake uniformly without burning.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless, preserving the cookies’ delicate shape.
- Rolling Pin and Cookie Cutters: If we’re shaping the dough for cut-out cookies, a non-stick rolling pin (about 12 inches long) and a set of metal cookie cutters in various shapes add fun and tradition to the process.
- Spatula and Cooling Rack: A rubber spatula for scraping bowls and folding ingredients, paired with a wire cooling rack, ensures our baked cookies cool evenly and maintain their signature crisp edges.
By having these items ready, we set ourselves up for a smooth baking experience that highlights the straightforward charm of Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe, ensuring perfect, buttery results every time.
Prepare the Dough
To start crafting the dough for Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe, begin by combining the wet ingredients in a medium mixing bowl. Cream 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—this takes about 2 to 3 minutes and creates a smooth, airy base that promises a tender texture. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully, then mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract for that signature warm flavor.
Next, in a separate medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 3 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to form a soft, pliable dough. We recommend using a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring everything blends evenly and avoiding overmixing to keep the cookies light and buttery.
Chill the Dough
Once the dough is prepared, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying and enhance the flavors. Shape the dough into a disk for easier rolling later, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. This chilling step is crucial as it firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies hold their shape during baking while intensifying the buttery goodness of Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe.
Roll and Cut the Cookies
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 5 to 10 minutes to soften slightly. On a lightly floured surface, use a non-stick rolling pin to roll out the dough to an even ¼-inch thickness, ensuring uniform cookies that bake perfectly. Employ cookie cutters to cut out shapes, dipping the cutters in flour as needed to prevent sticking and maximizing efficiency.
Gather the scraps, reroll them once, and cut additional cookies to minimize waste. We aim for 24 to 36 cookies depending on the cutter size, each ready to capture the nostalgic charm of Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe. Place the cutouts on prepared baking sheets lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart for even baking.
Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F for optimal results with Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe. Arrange the baking sheets in the center rack and bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Watch closely to avoid overbaking, as this preserves the soft, buttery center that defines these treats.
As the cookies bake, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma of vanilla and sugar, evoking fond memories of holiday gatherings. Once done, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on the sheets for 2 minutes to set.
Cool and Decorate
Transfer the baked cookies to a wire cooling rack using a spatula and allow them to cool completely for about 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling process firms up the cookies, making them ideal for decorating and ensuring they retain their signature buttery flavor from Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe.
For decoration, unleash your creativity with options like royal icing, sprinkles, or colored sugars. Apply icing gently with a piping bag or spread it with a knife, letting it set for 30 minutes to an hour for a glossy finish that adds visual appeal and enhances the overall sensory experience.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe lies in its flexibility for advance preparation, allowing us to enjoy fresh-baked treats without last-minute rush. By planning ahead, we preserve the cookies’ signature buttery texture and nostalgic flavor, making them ideal for holidays or gatherings.
Preparing the Dough in Advance
We can streamline our baking process by making the dough ahead of time. Start by following the dough preparation steps from our earlier instructions—creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then incorporating the eggs, vanilla, and dry ingredients to form a soft, pliable dough. Once mixed, shape the dough into a disk or logs for easy handling.
- Wrap and Chill: Immediately wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This step helps maintain the dough’s moisture and prevents it from absorbing odors from the fridge.
- Refrigerate: Store the wrapped dough in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Chilling enhances the flavor development, resulting in cookies with a more pronounced, buttery richness.
For longer storage, freezing is our go-to method:
- Freeze the Dough: Place the wrapped dough in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring we always have Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie dough ready for spontaneous baking.
- Thawing Process: When ready to use, transfer the dough to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This gradual thaw keeps the dough from becoming too soft, preserving its perfect rollability for cutting uniform shapes.
Baking and Storing Baked Cookies Ahead
If we prefer to bake the cookies in advance, we can still capture that fresh-from-the-oven aroma and soft center by following proper storage techniques.
First, bake the cookies as outlined in our recipe—rolling the dough to ¼-inch thickness, cutting shapes, and baking at 375°F until the edges turn a golden brown with a slight crunch that yields to a tender bite.
- Cool Completely: Allow the baked cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation, which could make them soggy and diminish their delightful, buttery appeal.
- Storage Options: Use airtight containers or zip-top bags to lock in freshness.
To provide clear guidance on storage durations and methods, we’ve compiled the following table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Optimal Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Store in a cool, dry place; add layers of parchment paper between cookies to avoid sticking and maintain their crisp edges. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Ideal for humid environments; the cookies retain their soft center while the chill enhances the vanilla notes. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Flash-freeze baked cookies on a tray first, then transfer to bags; this preserves the texture for thawing at room temperature in about 30 minutes. |
By utilizing these Make-Ahead Instructions, we ensure that Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe remains a effortless, crowd-pleasing favorite, ready to delight with its warm, comforting flavors whenever the occasion arises.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe with you, a timeless favorite that brings families together.
It’s more than just baking—it’s about creating warm traditions and joyful moments in your kitchen.
We encourage you to try it and make it your own; you’ll see why it’s become our go-to for every occasion.
Happy baking—your perfect batch awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe?
Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookie Recipe is a classic family favorite passed down through generations, known for its buttery goodness and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for holidays or any occasion, evoking warm memories with easy, foolproof steps to create soft, delicious cookies.
What ingredients are needed for Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookies?
You’ll need 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. These high-quality components ensure a buttery flavor and nostalgic taste.
What equipment is required to make these cookies?
Gather two medium mixing bowls, measuring tools, an electric mixer, heavy-duty baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, a non-stick rolling pin, cookie cutters, a rubber spatula, and a wire cooling rack. These tools make preparation smooth and help achieve even baking.
How do I prepare the dough for Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookies?
Cream 1 cup butter and 1 cup sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add 2 eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla, then mix in the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) gradually to form a soft dough. Chill the dough for at least 1 hour to enhance flavor and shape.
How should I bake Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookies?
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll the chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness, cut with cookie cutters, and place on lined baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden but centers stay soft. Cool on a wire rack for the best texture.
Can I make Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and chill it wrapped in plastic, or freeze for up to 3 months. You can also bake cookies ahead and store at room temperature for up to 1 week, refrigerate for 2 weeks, or freeze for 3 months to keep them fresh.
How do I store Aunt Mary’s Sugar Cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain their soft, buttery texture.