Are you craving the delightful crunch of a perfectly baked sugar cookie, but don't want a mountain of them? This guide provides the ultimate small batch sugar cookie recipe, perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without overwhelming your cookie jar (or your waistline!). We'll cover everything from the perfect dough consistency to creative decorating ideas. Get ready to bake some deliciousness!
What Makes This Small Batch Sugar Cookie Recipe Special?
This recipe is designed for those who want the joy of baking sugar cookies without the commitment of a large batch. It's ideal for small households, those wanting to experiment with different decorating styles, or simply those who prefer fresh-baked cookies without leftovers. The recipe produces approximately 12 cookies, easily adjustable if needed.
The Recipe: Small Batch Sugar Cookie Bliss
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but can be done by hand with some elbow grease.
- Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.
- Bake: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with vegan butter, the egg yolk with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water), and ensure your vanilla extract is vegan-friendly.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer bag for longer storage. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
What are some creative decorating ideas for small batch sugar cookies?
The possibilities are endless! You can use royal icing to create intricate designs, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, drizzle with melted chocolate, or use food coloring to tint the dough before baking. Consider seasonal themes or festive occasions for inspiration.
How do I prevent my sugar cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading. Make sure your butter is properly softened but not melted, and don't overmix the dough. If your cookies still spread too much, try reducing the baking time slightly.
Can I adjust this recipe to make a larger or smaller batch?
Yes, you can easily adjust this recipe. Simply multiply or divide the ingredients proportionally to achieve your desired batch size. Keep in mind that baking time might need slight adjustments depending on the thickness of your cookies.
This small batch sugar cookie recipe is your gateway to delicious, homemade treats without the overwhelming commitment of a larger batch. Experiment with different flavors, decorations, and techniques to find your perfect sugar cookie experience. Happy baking!
