We’ve all fallen for the irresistible charm of Panera Bread’s sugar cookies—their soft, chewy centers and sweet glaze make them a cafe favorite. As food lovers we’re excited to share our homemade version of this classic recipe so you can recreate that bakery magic at home.
Originating from Panera’s beloved menu these cookies boast a simple yet perfect blend of ingredients that deliver comfort in every bite. We’ll guide you through the steps to achieve that signature texture and flavor we know you’ll adore.
Ingredients
To bring our homemade Panera Bread sugar cookie recipe to life, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver the signature soft, chewy centers and sweet glaze. Below, we list them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for precision.
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups, sifted to ensure a light texture that contributes to the cookies’ signature chewiness.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup, measured and set aside for creaming with butter to create the perfect sweetness balance.
- Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened at room temperature to blend smoothly and achieve that melt-in-your-mouth feel.
- Large eggs: 2, at room temperature for better incorporation and to help bind the dough effectively.
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, to provide a gentle lift without overpowering the soft texture.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, to enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons, pure variety recommended for its authentic, rich aroma that mimics the cafe favorite.
Glaze Ingredients
- Powdered sugar: 1 ½ cups, sifted to avoid lumps and create a smooth, glossy finish on the cookies.
- Milk: 2-3 tablespoons, whole milk preferred for its creaminess, added gradually to reach the ideal drizzling consistency.
- Vanilla extract: ½ teaspoon, to infuse a subtle flavor that ties the glaze back to the cookie dough’s taste profile.
Equipment Needed
To recreate our homemade Panera Bread sugar cookie recipe with precision, we need the right tools to ensure everything mixes, bakes, and cools perfectly. Gathering this equipment beforehand helps streamline the process and achieve that signature soft, chewy texture fans love.
Here’s a detailed list of the essential equipment, organized by category for ease:
- Mixing Tools:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this for combining dry ingredients like flour and baking powder; opt for a sturdy, heat-resistant bowl to handle various baking tasks.
- Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for wet ingredients such as butter and eggs, allowing us to keep things separate until blending.
- Measuring Tools:
- Set of measuring cups: Essential for accurate measurements of ingredients like flour and sugar; we recommend a standard set with 1-cup, ½-cup, ⅓-cup, and ¼-cup sizes.
- Set of measuring spoons: Critical for precise additions of smaller items like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract; ensures the balance of flavors in our Panera Bread sugar cookie dough.
- Mixing and Blending Tools:
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: We rely on this for creaming butter and sugar to achieve the light, airy dough; if using a hand mixer, select one with variable speeds for control.
- Whisk or silicone spatula: Great for gently folding in ingredients; the whisk helps incorporate air, while the spatula is perfect for scraping down bowl sides.
- Baking and Cooling Tools:
- Baking sheets: At least two rimmed sheets are necessary for even baking; we suggest non-stick ones to prevent our sugar cookies from sticking and maintain that perfect golden edge.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: This lines the baking sheets and ensures easy cookie removal; it’s a must for achieving the clean, professional look of Panera Bread’s version.
- Cookie scoop (1.5-inch size): Helps us portion dough uniformly for consistent cookie sizes, reducing baking time variations.
- Wire cooling rack: After baking, we use this to cool cookies evenly, preserving their chewy centers and preventing sogginess.
| Equipment Item | Estimated Cost (USD) | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Large mixing bowl | $5–10 | Foundation for preparing dough |
| Set of measuring cups | $5–15 | Ensures precise ingredient ratios |
| Electric hand mixer | $20–50 | Achieves smooth, creamy mixtures |
| Baking sheets (set of 2) | $10–20 | Provides even heat distribution |
| Parchment paper (roll) | $3–7 | Prevents sticking and mess |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential equipment, let’s walk through the process of making our homemade Panera Bread sugar cookies. We will provide precise, step-by-step guidance to achieve those irresistible soft, chewy centers and a sweet glaze that captures the cafe’s magic.
Prepare the Dough
First, we start by creaming the wet ingredients to build a rich base for our dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened to room temperature) and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, beat them together for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale yellow—this step ensures the cookies develop their signature tenderness.
Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and create a smooth consistency. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that warm, aromatic flavor Panera fans love. In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky, promising those delectable chewy centers once baked.
Chill the Dough
To enhance the texture and prevent spreading, chilling is key for our Panera-inspired cookies. Once the dough is prepared, we wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or cover the bowl with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour, or ideally 2-3 hours—this firms up the butter, allowing the flavors to meld and ensuring a perfect rise during baking.
If you’re short on time, we recommend chilling for a minimum of 1 hour to maintain structure, but longer chilling up to 24 hours can intensify the taste and texture. Remember, patience here leads to cookies with that coveted soft, chewy quality reminiscent of the original.
Shape and Bake
After chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for even heat distribution and easy cleanup. Using a cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons per scoop), portion out the dough onto the prepared sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading.
Gently roll each scoop into a ball and flatten slightly with your fingers or the bottom of a glass for uniform shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, rotating the sheets halfway through for even baking—the edges should turn a light golden brown while the centers remain pale and soft. This precise timing and temperature help replicate Panera’s tender bite, yielding about 24 cookies from the batch.
Cool and Decorate
Immediately transfer the baked cookies to a wire cooling rack using a spatula, and let them cool for 5 minutes on the rack to set their structure without becoming crisp. Once cooled completely (about 15-20 minutes), prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
Dip the top of each cookie into the glaze or drizzle it over with a spoon for that sweet, glossy finish. Allow the glaze to set for 10 minutes, resulting in a delightful contrast of crisp glaze over the soft, chewy cookie base. This final step elevates our homemade version to match the cafe’s irresistible appeal.
Make-Ahead and Storage
We understand that life gets busy, so planning ahead with our Panera Bread sugar cookie recipe can make baking a breeze while preserving that signature soft, chewy texture and sweet glaze. Below, we break down make-ahead tips and storage guidelines to help you enjoy these cafe-inspired treats at their best.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing components of our Panera Bread sugar cookie recipe in advance ensures you can whip up a batch with minimal effort. Follow these steps for optimal results:
- Prepare the dough up to 24 hours ahead: After mixing the dough as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, shape it into balls using your cookie scoop and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This chilling process enhances the cookies’ texture by preventing excessive spreading during baking.
- Freeze unbaked dough for longer storage: For extended make-ahead options, arrange shaped dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer the frozen balls to an airtight freezer bag or container, where they can last up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the oven steps.
- Make the glaze in advance: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before using to restore its smooth, glossy consistency, ensuring your cookies get that irresistible Panera Bread finish.
Storage Guidelines
Once your Panera Bread sugar cookies are baked and glazed, proper storage is key to maintaining their fresh taste and texture. We’ve compiled the details in the table below for quick reference, including recommended methods, durations, and tips to keep them soft and flavorful.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For | Tips for Optimal Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-5 days | Unglazed or freshly glazed cookies | Store in an airtight container at room temperature (around 68-72°F). Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve the chewy center. |
| Refrigerator | Up to 1 week | Glazed cookies | Transfer cooled cookies to an airtight container. The cold environment helps the glaze set firmly, but let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to regain softness. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Long-term storage of baked cookies | Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore crisp edges and chewy interior. |
By following these strategies, you’ll maximize the shelf life of your homemade Panera Bread sugar cookies without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve followed along with our take on the Panera Bread sugar cookie recipe. It’s rewarding to bake these treats at home and capture that cafe magic in your kitchen.
By using fresh ingredients and our tips, you’ll create cookies that rival the originals every time. Let’s keep experimenting and enjoying homemade delights that bring us joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients for Panera Bread sugar cookies?
The main ingredients for the cookie dough include all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, large eggs, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. For the glaze, you’ll need powdered sugar, milk, and more vanilla extract. Using fresh, high-quality items ensures the soft, chewy texture and sweet flavor that mimics the cafe favorite.
How do I make the dough for these homemade Panera Bread sugar cookies?
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla extract. Mix in the dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, and salt gradually. Chill the dough for at least one hour to prevent spreading and enhance texture. This simple process takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time.
What equipment is needed to bake Panera Bread sugar cookies at home?
You’ll need large and medium mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, a cookie scoop, and a wire cooling rack. These tools help achieve the perfect soft, chewy results; most cost under $20 each and are essential for precise baking.
How long should I chill the dough for these sugar cookies?
Chill the dough for at least one hour, or up to 24 hours, in the refrigerator. This step is crucial to firm up the dough, prevent excessive spreading during baking, and develop the signature soft, chewy center that Panera Bread fans love.
Can I make these Panera Bread sugar cookies ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, or freeze unbaked portions for up to three months. You can also make the glaze ahead and store it in the fridge for a few days. This makes it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
How do I store baked Panera Bread sugar cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months to maintain freshness. Let them cool completely before storing to keep the texture soft and chewy without sogginess.
What tips ensure the cookies have a soft and chewy texture?
Use precise measurements, chill the dough properly, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Avoid overbaking to retain moisture, and let cookies cool on a wire rack. Fresh ingredients and the right glaze application will help replicate Panera Bread’s irresistible texture.