12 Sugar Cookie Recipes To Make Your Cookie Jar Happy is your go-to guide for transforming a simple treat into a delightful indulgence. Sugar cookies are a timeless classic—soft, chewy, or crisp, with just the right hint of sweetness—and they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to everyday cravings. This collection brings you a variety of recipes that cater to every kind of cookie lover, whether you enjoy them plain, frosted, filled, or dipped. These aren’t just recipes; they’re invitations to slow down, bake with love, and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of home-baked happiness.
Each recipe in this list is crafted to bring out the best in your cookie jar, with easy-to-follow instructions and creative variations that make baking both fun and rewarding. From buttery vanilla classics to vibrant sprinkle-studded bites and zesty citrus twists, these cookies are perfect for sharing—or not! Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing party treats, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea and a cookie in hand, you’ll find inspiration and joy in every bite. Keep reading—you’re only a few steps away from discovering your new favorite sugar cookie.
Maple Pecan Sugar Cookies
These Maple Pecan Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the nutty flavor of pecans with the sweetness of maple syrup. The cookies are soft and chewy, making them a perfect addition to your cookie jar. They are simple to make, requiring only a few ingredients and a little bit of time.
The combination of maple and pecans creates a warm, comforting flavor that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, these cookies will surely bring a smile to your face.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Extra maple syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving.
Coconut Sugar Cookies
Coconut sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic treat. With a subtle nutty flavor from the coconut sugar and a chewy texture, these cookies are sure to please everyone. They’re simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
The combination of coconut and sweet vanilla creates a warm, inviting taste that brings a little touch of the tropics to your cookie jar. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later; either way, they’re bound to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the coconut sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies
Chocolate chip sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. They combine the soft, sweet taste of traditional sugar cookies with the rich, melty goodness of chocolate chips. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to quiet evenings at home.
This recipe is simple to follow, making it a great choice for bakers of all skill levels. The blend of buttery sugar cookie dough and chocolate chips creates a treat that is both comforting and satisfying. You’ll love how quickly they come together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutmeg Spiced Sugar Cookies
Nutmeg spiced sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. Infused with a warm, aromatic flavor from nutmeg, these cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year. They have a tender texture that melts in your mouth, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
This recipe is simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients and minimal prep time. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch and fill your home with the inviting scent of nutmeg and sugar!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your nutmeg spiced sugar cookies!
Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
Classic vanilla sugar cookies are a timeless treat that everyone loves. With a light, buttery flavor and a sweet vanilla aroma, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a gathering, or just for a sweet snack at home, this recipe is simple and quick to whip up.
These cookies have a delightful crisp edge and a soft center, making them irresistible. Plus, you can get creative by adding sprinkles or icing to make them even more fun. Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started on these delicious treats!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until fully combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets. You can flatten them slightly with your hand if desired.
- Add sprinkles on top of each cookie before baking.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Peppermint sugar cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with fresh peppermint flavor, making them a festive treat that everyone will enjoy.
They’re simple to make, requiring basic ingredients you probably already have at home. With a touch of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes, these cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful, making them a great addition to any cookie jar.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined. Fold in the crushed candy canes.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, mix powdered sugar with a little water to create a glaze. Drizzle it over the cookies and sprinkle with additional crushed candy canes for decoration.
Lemon Zest Sugar Cookies
Lemon zest sugar cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie. Bursting with fresh lemon flavor, these cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for anyone who loves a citrusy treat. The addition of lemon zest gives them a bright, refreshing taste that’s sure to please your palate.
Making these cookies is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a batch ready in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, these lemon zest sugar cookies will bring a smile to your face.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Almond Flour Sugar Cookies
These almond flour sugar cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. With a subtle nutty flavor and a tender crumb, they offer a unique taste that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.
What sets these cookies apart is their gluten-free nature, thanks to almond flour. They’re light yet satisfying, and the addition of whole almonds on top adds a lovely crunch. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish!
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Whole almonds for topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine almond flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking soda. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, and softened butter until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening each slightly. Top with a whole almond.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Dust with Sugar: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a final touch. Enjoy!
Oatmeal Raisin Sugar Cookies
Oatmeal Raisin Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie we all love. These cookies combine the chewy texture of oats with sweet, plump raisins, all wrapped in a buttery sugar cookie base. The result is a treat that’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it perfect for any baking enthusiast.
With a crispy edge and a soft center, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a quick snack on the go, they bring comfort and warmth to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the rolled oats and raisins until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Matcha Green Tea Sugar Cookies
Matcha green tea sugar cookies bring a unique twist to the classic sugar cookie. With a light and crumbly texture, these cookies offer a subtle earthy flavor from the matcha, making them perfect for any occasion. They’re not only tasty but also simple to prepare, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
These cookies are delightful with a cup of tea or coffee, and their vibrant green hue will impress anyone who sees them. Plus, they’re a fun way to introduce matcha into your baking repertoire!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon matcha green tea powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly and sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
S’mores Sugar Cookies
S’mores Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining the buttery sweetness of sugar cookies with the nostalgic flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them a hit for any occasion. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to whip up!
Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies will take you back to warm summer nights by the fire. With each bite, you get a delicious blend of textures and tastes that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious treats!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, blending until just combined. Fold in mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and crushed graham crackers.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies
These Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. They combine the bright, zesty flavor of oranges with a creamy finish, reminiscent of your favorite childhood popsicle. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are simple to make and will surely bring a smile to anyone who tries them.
With a tender texture and a refreshing flavor, these cookies are an easy bake that the whole family can enjoy. The orange zest and cream cheese frosting create a wonderful balance of sweetness and citrus, making them a delightful addition to your cookie jar.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with your hand.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange juice until smooth. Once the cookies are cool, drizzle the frosting over the top.
Final thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about a well-made sugar cookie, and these 12 recipes prove that even the simplest ingredients can create magic. Whether you’re baking to celebrate, to unwind, or just to fill your cookie jar with something special, each of these recipes brings its own touch of sweetness to your day. So turn on the oven, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin—because your perfect sugar cookie moment is waiting.