Small Batch Sugar Cookies
These quick and easy vanilla cookies are soft in the middle with lightly crisp edges, perfect for a small craving without the hassle of rolling dough.
Servings: 4 cookies
Calories: 90kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature, not melted.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar Use extra sugar for sprinkling if desired.
- 1 large egg yolk Just the yolk keeps the batch small.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Measure lightly to avoid a dry dough.
- 1 pinch salt Balances the sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a quarter baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until combined.
- Stir in all-purpose flour just until the dough forms a soft, scoopable consistency.
- Scoop the dough into small balls, approximately 1 heaping tablespoon each, and flatten slightly.
- Optional: Sprinkle a little extra sugar on top for sparkle.
- Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are set and the tops look dry.
- Allow cooling on the pan for a couple of minutes, and then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Notes
For thicker cookies, chill the dough balls for 10-20 minutes before baking. If your dough feels dry, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk. You can experiment with flavors by adding lemon zest or cinnamon.