Best Chewy Sugar Cookies

Name: Best Chewy Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed; 1/4 cup light corn syrup; 1 large egg; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon lemon extract; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; Large decorating sugar (for rolling)

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 9, 2025

Updated:

March 9, 2025

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Best Chewy Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that can evoke memories of cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. There’s just something special about biting into a warm, chewy cookie that brings a sense of nostalgia. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through the air as butter and sugar blend together, creating a heavenly combination! Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a family gathering or just indulging yourself, these cookies have a way of making any day brighter. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Plus, the simplicity of making these Best Chewy Sugar Cookies makes them truly irresistible. Grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

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Why This Recipe Works

The Science of Chewy Texture

The secret behind those perfect chewy cookies lies in the combination of ingredients. Using a mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar helps retain moisture, while the corn syrup adds more chewiness. The right balance creates cookies that are soft in the center but have just enough structure.

Balancing Sweetness and Flavor

Hitting the sweet spot means finding the right mix of sugars and extracts. The granulated sugar contributes to the cookie’s crisp edges, while the brown sugar lends its rich, caramelized flavor. When you add vanilla and lemon extracts, they enhance the overall taste, making each bite a delight without being overwhelming.

Perfect Baking Techniques

To bake the ideal cookie, achieving golden edges while keeping the center tender is crucial. A higher baking temperature helps create that lovely contrast. Baking for just the right amount of time ensures the cookies stay chewy and delicious without becoming hard.

Why You’ll Love This Best Chewy Sugar Cookies

Comfort Food Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about homemade cookies. These Best Chewy Sugar Cookies evoke feelings of childhood, reminding us of family gatherings and afternoons after school. Each bite brings a smile, serving as a sweet reminder of those cherished moments.

Versatile Treat

Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or having a casual family dinner, these cookies fit any occasion perfectly. They’re easy to dress up for special events, or you can keep them simple for a cozy evening at home.

Easy Preparation

This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both inexperienced bakers and seasoned pros. You don’t need to be a master chef to create these delicious cookies, as they require minimal steps and ingredients.

Ingredients for Best Chewy Sugar Cookies

3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
1/4 cup light corn syrup
1 large egg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Large decorating sugar (for rolling)

Creaming the Butter and Sugars

Combine the Ingredients

First, preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the cookies bake evenly. In a large mixing bowl, cream the room-temperature butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for introducing air into the mixture, which helps the cookies rise beautifully.

Adding Wet Ingredients

Mix in the Syrups and Egg

Now it’s time to add flavor! To your creamed mixture, add the corn syrup, large egg, vanilla extract, and lemon extract. Mix these until fully combined, ensuring everything blends together smoothly for a wonderful flavor profile.

Whisking the Dry Ingredients

Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the cookies to rise properly and maintain that delightful chewy texture.

Combining the Mixtures

Gradually mix the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir carefully after each addition until everything is just combined. Avoid over-mixing; this helps maintain the cookie’s ideal texture, ensuring you get that perfect chew.

Forming the Cookies

Scoop and Roll

Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough. Roll each piece into a ball and then dip the dough balls into a small bowl of large decorating sugar until they are fully coated. This adds a beautiful finish and a delightful crunch.

Baking the Cookies

Achieve the Perfect Bake

Place the dough balls on your prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden brown. It’s key not to overbake, as you want those cookies to remain soft and chewy in the center!

Cooling and Storing

Let Them Rest

After baking, let the cookies cool on the pan for about 5 minutes, allowing them to set. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. Store any cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a glass of milk to fully embrace that homemade experience.
Pair them with your favorite ice cream for a delightful dessert sandwich that’s sure to impress!

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is at room temperature; this helps with the creaming process.
If your dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes before rolling into balls. This helps the cookies hold their shape better.

Variations

Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
You can substitute almond extract instead of lemon for a unique taste variation that can surprise your palate.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze cookie dough balls, baking them directly from the freezer. Just add an extra minute to the baking time for best results.

2. What can I use instead of corn syrup?
Honey or maple syrup can be used as alternatives, though they might slightly alter the flavor.

3. Why are my cookies not chewy?
If they turn out hard, it’s likely due to overbaking or inaccurate measurements of flour. Always check your proportions for accuracy.

4. How do I store my cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For extended freshness, keep them in the fridge.

5. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, keeping in mind that this might change the texture a bit.

Every bite of these Best Chewy Sugar Cookies is like a fond memory wrapped in sweetness. Whether you share them with others or enjoy them on your own, these cookies provide a comforting touch amidst everyday chaos. So, grab those ingredients, channel your inner baker, and create something truly delightful!

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