3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vanilla sugar
- 1 cup self-rising flour
Directions
Follow these easy steps to create your perfect batch of vanilla butter cookies!
- Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla sugar to the butter and continue beating until fully combined.
- Gradually add the self-rising flour and beat until just combined into a dough.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the dough balls about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are set and slightly golden.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet.
Cook's Note
For a colorful and fun touch, try sprinkling nonpareils on the cookies immediately after removing them from the oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 411
- Total Fat: 23g (30% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 14g (72% DV)
- Cholesterol: 61mg (20% DV)
- Sodium: 376mg (16% DV)
- Total Carbohydrate: 48g (17% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 1g (3% DV)
- Total Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 3g (7% DV)
- Calcium: 113mg (9% DV)
- Iron: 1mg (8% DV)
- Potassium: 46mg (1% DV)
Servings Per Recipe: 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies are a simple, sweet treat loved by many across the globe. This recipe, which requires only three ingredients, has become a popular go-to for anyone seeking a quick and easy dessert. These cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion. But like all beloved dishes, theres more than meets the eye. Lets take a deeper dive into the history, regional variations, and unique features of this beloved treat.
History and Origin
The origins of the sugar cookie can be traced back to early European settlers in America, particularly those of German and Dutch descent. The original sugar cookies were simple, flat, and often used as a way to preserve sugar, a valuable commodity in early American kitchens. Over time, the recipe evolved, with the addition of butter, vanilla, and other flavorings. Today, the "3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie" recipe is a streamlined version of this classic, beloved for its simplicity and deliciousness. Its modern incarnation is popular in many households as a quick snack or dessert, especially around the holidays.
Regional Variations
While the basic structure of sugar cookies remains consistent, various regions have developed their own twists on the recipe. In the United States, sugar cookies are often rolled into shapes for holidays like Christmas, cut out with festive cookie cutters, and decorated with colorful icing or sprinkles. In contrast, European versions may incorporate ingredients like citrus zest, almonds, or cinnamon to add a unique flair. The 3-ingredient version, however, is a more recent invention, focusing on simplicity and minimalism in the kitchen. It can be found across various regions in North America, especially for those looking for a quick, no-fuss treat.
How it Differs from Similar Dishes
The 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie is distinct from other types of cookies in its sheer simplicity. Traditional sugar cookie recipes may include additional ingredients such as eggs, vanilla extract, and various leavening agents, which complicate the process. The 3-ingredient version, however, uses self-rising flour, which eliminates the need for baking powder or soda. Additionally, the butter and vanilla sugar provide a perfectly balanced flavor profile with minimal effort. Compared to more complex cookies like chocolate chip cookies, which require numerous ingredients and precise measurements, these sugar cookies are refreshingly easy and fast to prepare.
Where Are They Usually Served?
These simple sugar cookies are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They are perfect for casual family gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet snack for children after school. Due to their simple nature, these cookies are often baked in large batches, making them a go-to choice for busy bakers looking to whip up something quick and delicious. They are also commonly served at holiday parties, where their ease of preparation and light sweetness make them a crowd-pleaser. Often, they can be dressed up with sprinkles or frosting to suit the occasion, though they are just as delightful on their own.
Fun Facts About 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies
- Did you know that some people use flavored sugars, like vanilla or lemon sugar, to add an extra layer of flavor to these cookies?
- Although this recipe is popular in the United States, the concept of a "simple sugar cookie" can be found in other cultures as well, such as the German "Zuckerpltzchen."
- The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a fall twist, or top them with chocolate chips for a more decadent treat.
- Many bakers love this recipe because its so easy to make with kids. The dough is simple to handle and doesnt require any complex techniques, making it ideal for little hands to shape and decorate.
Whether you are an experienced baker or someone looking to try your hand at something new, the 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookie recipe is a great choice. Its history, regional twists, and delightful simplicity make it a timeless treat that everyone can enjoy!
FAQ about 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies Recipe
Comments
Joyce Lopez
05/03/2024 04:01:48 AM
I found these cookies super easy to make, and they were a huge hit with my family! They turned out soft and chewy, just the way we like them. Couldn't get my hands on vanilla sugar, so I substituted with regular granulated sugar and a dash of vanilla extract.
Eric Baker
05/14/2025 03:54:27 PM
Here is the revised version: I found that refrigerating the dough before baking is key to achieving a five-star result. The first time I made these cookies without chilling the dough, they spread more than I would have liked during baking. By letting the dough chill for a few hours and then slightly softening it before shaping and baking, I was able to create perfect cookies. I rolled the dough into small ping-pong ball sized balls and flattened them using a fork, similar to making peanut butter cookies. I preferred checking the cookies around the 8-minute mark rather than baking them for the full 14 minutes. Additionally, I added a generous teaspoon of vanilla extract since I didn't have vanilla sugar on hand.
Christopher Rodriguez
02/08/2024 04:17:42 PM
Impressive! This cookie has the perfect balance of crunchiness and softness. I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious it turned out, especially considering how simple the ingredients are. To create self-rising flour, I added 1/2 tsp salt and 1.5 tsp baking powder to 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Since I didn't have vanilla sugar, I included 1 tsp of vanilla extract. I love sprinkles, so I coated the cookie dough balls with them before baking, although they didn't stick as well after baking. Using a 1.5 tablespoon cookie scoop, I managed to make 12 cookies.
Charles Walker
01/27/2023 11:46:16 AM
I really enjoyed this recipe for its simplicity, especially the use of power tools! I also added 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. It's a breeze for even those who aren't skilled in the kitchen to make and impress others. Baking them for 9 minutes gave them perfect golden edges, and topping them off with a cinnamon sugar mixture and a Hershey's Kiss in the center took them to the next level.
Jeffrey Johnson
11/28/2024 11:40:27 AM
I added lemon juice and absolutely loved the tangy flavor it brought to the dish.