3-Ingredient Classic Sugar Cookies

Prep the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line 2 baking sheets with parchment or lightly grease.
Cream butter &amp; sugar: Beat together until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Use a mixer or sturdy spoon.
Add flour: Mix in two additions, stirring gently until the dough comes together. Press and fold if crumbly.
Shape cookies: Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough, roll into balls, and place 2 inches apart on sheets.
Flatten: Press each ball to 1/4-inch thick. Sprinkle lightly with sugar if desired.
Bake: 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers set. Avoid overbaking for tenderness.
Cool &amp; store: Rest on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.

1 minute read

Sugar cookies are a quiet cornerstone of American home baking—simple, nostalgic, and endlessly versatile. Their roots trace back to European butter cookies and colonial-era “sugar biscuits,” when sugar was still a luxury. As ingredients became more affordable, these cookies transformed into an everyday treat: easy enough for a weeknight, yet special enough for the holidays.

This streamlined recipe pares things down to the essentials—just butter, sugar, and flour—yielding tender cookies with crisp edges and a clean, buttery flavor. They’re perfect for decorating, dunking into coffee, or enjoying warm straight from the pan. Beginners, kids, or anyone craving a no-fuss classic will find this recipe both comforting and reliable.

🍪 Serving Ideas

Pair with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk.
Balance richer desserts: vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or creamy pudding.
Add variety to a dessert platter with chocolate cookies, shortbread, and nutty bites.
Create a DIY dessert bar with melted chocolate, sprinkles, and chopped nuts for dipping.
Serve after hearty meals like roast chicken or pasta for a light, crisp finish.