Easy 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie Recipe – Perfect & Simple

There’s something magical about the simplicity of a sugar cookie. No frills, no fuss—just pure, buttery sweetness that melts in your mouth. I remember the first time I made these as a little girl, standing on a stool in my grandmother’s kitchen, flour dusting my nose as she guided my tiny hands. Now, years later, I still turn to this easy 3-ingredient recipe when I need a little comfort or a last-minute treat to share with friends. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug—effortless, familiar, and always delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Yes, you read that right—just three ingredients! Here’s what makes these cookies so wonderfully simple:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The star of the show! Butter gives these cookies their rich, tender crumb. If you only have salted butter on hand, just reduce any added salt in the recipe (though these cookies don’t need it).
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweet but not overwhelming. For a slightly caramelized flavor, you can swap in brown sugar, but I love the classic simplicity of white sugar here.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of our cookies. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can substitute ¼ cup of the flour with cornstarch for an even more delicate texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake? Let’s keep things as easy as promised:

1. Cream the butter and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step is key for that perfect cookie texture, so don’t rush it!
2. Add the flour. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined. The dough will be soft but not sticky. If it feels too crumbly, add a teaspoon of cold water to bring it together.
3. Shape and chill. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each) and place them on a baking sheet. Gently flatten each with the back of a spoon or your fingers. Pop the tray in the fridge for 15 minutes—this helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
4. Bake to golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, press a fork into the dough balls for a classic crisscross pattern, or roll the edges in colored sugar before baking for a festive touch!

There’s something magical about a sugar cookie—simple, sweet, and endlessly versatile. This easy 3-ingredient recipe is perfect for when you need a quick treat without the fuss. But just because it’s simple doesn’t mean we can’t make it extra special! Here are some pro tips, fun variations, and everything else you need to know to make these cookies shine.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies

Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a little insider knowledge. Here are a few tricks to ensure your cookies turn out just right:

• Room-temperature butter is key for easy mixing and a smooth dough. Let it soften naturally—don’t microwave it!
• Don’t overmix the dough. Once the ingredients are combined, stop mixing to avoid tough cookies.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want thicker, chewier cookies.

Fun Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about sugar cookies is how easily you can customize them. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

• Lemon or almond extract – Swap a teaspoon of vanilla for a bright citrus or nutty twist.
• Sprinkles or sanding sugar – Roll the dough balls in colorful sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
• Gluten-free flour – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed—the cookies will still be delicious!
• Brown butter – Brown your butter before mixing it in for a rich, toasty flavor.

What to Serve With Sugar Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with:

• A cold glass of milk (classic and always a winner!)
• A warm cup of tea or coffee
• Vanilla ice cream for a simple cookie sandwich
• Fresh berries for a light, fruity contrast

Storage & Reheating Tips

To keep your cookies fresh and tasty:

• Room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months, or freeze the dough for quick baking later.
• Reheating – Warm cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds for that just-baked feel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies without a mixer?
Absolutely! A wooden spoon and some elbow grease will work just fine.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
If your cookies spread too thin, your butter might have been too soft or your oven too cool. Try chilling the dough before baking.

Can I add frosting?
Of course! A simple glaze or buttercream would be lovely—just let the cookies cool completely first.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe scales up easily, so feel free to make a big batch for gatherings or gifting.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a soft, buttery sugar cookie—especially when it’s this easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this 3-ingredient recipe is sure to become a favorite. So preheat that oven, grab your ingredients, and let the sweet simplicity of homemade cookies fill your kitchen (and your heart). Happy baking!

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