3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

Some of the best recipes are the simplest ones, and these 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are a prime example. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you can create a batch of deliciously crisp-yet-tender cookies that taste like childhood and comfort in every bite. Optional vanilla extract and colorful sprinkles elevate these cookies for special occasions, but the base recipe is simple enough for an everyday treat.

What makes these cookies so special is their straightforward preparation. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated steps—just a mixing bowl, a spoon, and your oven. These cookies are great for beginner bakers or for baking with kids. They’re also versatile: dress them up for the holidays, roll them in sprinkles for birthdays, or keep them plain for a timeless, buttery cookie that pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.

Why You’ll Love 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies

• Minimal Ingredients – Pantry staples you likely already have.
• Quick to Make – Less than 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Customizable – Add vanilla, almond extract, sprinkles, or colored sugar.
• Kid-Friendly – Easy steps for little hands to help with.
• Perfect Texture – Crisp edges with soft, buttery centers.
• Versatile for Any Occasion – Holidays, birthdays, or a simple sweet craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – The key to a tender, rich cookie.
• ⅔ cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided) – Sweetens the dough and adds a sparkly topping.
• 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled) – Creates structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – Adds depth and aroma.
• Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional) – For festive flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and prep:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Cream butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together butter and ⅔ cup sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating air in the dough, which contributes to the cookie’s texture.

3. Add vanilla (optional):
Stir in vanilla extract if using.

4. Mix in flour:
Gradually add flour to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.

5. Shape cookies:
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

6. Flatten and top:
Slightly flatten each dough ball with your palm or the bottom of a glass. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining 3 tablespoons sugar, and add sprinkles if desired.

7. Bake:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake—the cookies will continue firming up as they cool.

8. Cool:
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy warm with a glass of milk.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a simple afternoon treat.
• Decorate with sprinkles to make them festive for birthdays or holidays.

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to baking time.

Helpful Notes

• Chill the dough: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before baking to reduce spreading and ensure thicker cookies.
• Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop to make evenly sized cookies for consistent baking.
• Flavor variations: Swap vanilla extract for almond or lemon extract for a different twist.
• Sugar topping: Try rolling the dough balls in coarse sugar before baking for extra crunch and sparkle.
• Festive flair: Use colored sugars or themed sprinkles for holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, just omit the pinch of salt if using salted butter.

2. What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
No problem! These cookies taste delicious without it, though vanilla enhances the flavor.

3. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just make sure to bake in batches so the cookies have enough space to spread.

4. Can I make cut-out cookies with this dough?
This recipe is best for drop cookies. For cut-outs, you’ll need a slightly firmer sugar cookie dough.

5. How do I keep cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookie recipe is proof that baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With minimal ingredients and steps, you can create cookies that are buttery, crisp on the edges, and melt-in-your-mouth soft in the center. They’re perfect for beginners, great for kids to help with, and endlessly customizable for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a holiday cookie tray addition, or a fun weekend baking project, these sugar cookies deliver every time. Simple, sweet, and satisfying, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen.