alton brown sugar cookie recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
alton brown sugar cookie recipe
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I have been making Alton Brown’s sugar cookie recipe for years and it is hands down my favorite. The cookies come out perfectly every time with a nice crisp edge and a soft chewy center. My kids love helping me roll the dough and cut out shapes for holidays. This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry which makes it so convenient. The cookies are not overly sweet so they are great for decorating with frosting or just eating plain. They are a perfect treat for bake sales school parties or just a weekend baking project with the family. Plus you can control the sugar content a bit by using less sprinkles or a lighter glaze which makes them a slightly healthier option than store bought cookies.

Alton Brown's Sugar Cookies

Alton Brown’s Sugar Cookies

4.9 from 1727 votes

These are a classic sugar cookie recipe from Alton Brown. They are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside with a simple buttery flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 25 mins
Servings: 36 cookiesCuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cookies

3 cups all purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

👨‍🍳Directions

1Whisk together the flour baking powder and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
2In a large bowl beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy about 3 minutes.
3Add the egg milk and vanilla and beat until combined.
4Gradually add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
5Divide the dough in half and flatten each half into a disc. Wrap each disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days.
6Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7On a lightly floured surface roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters and place on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
8Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9Repeat with the remaining dough. Decorate as desired once cooled.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Plastic wrap
Rolling pin
Cookie cutters
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Wire rack

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 45mg🌾Total Carbs: 16g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 1g

📝Notes

Chilling the dough is essential for easy rolling and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much. You can freeze the unbaked cutout cookies on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Watch Video Of How Alton Brown’s Sugar Cookies Works

This Alton Brown sugar cookie recipe is a keeper because it is reliable and the cookies taste wonderful. I make them for every holiday and family get together and they always disappear fast. They are a simple and satisfying treat that everyone enjoys.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Alton Brown’s Sugar Cookies

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes you can. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/8 teaspoon to keep the cookies from being too salty.

2. Why do I need to chill the dough for so long?

Chilling the dough solidifies the butter which helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. It also makes the dough easier to roll out and cut without sticking.

3. Can I freeze these sugar cookies?

Yes you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. You can also freeze the unbaked dough discs for up to 3 months.

4. How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your dough is well chilled. Also use a light hand when rolling and avoid overmixing the dough. Baking on parchment paper also helps.

5. Can I use a different extract like almond or lemon?

Absolutely. You can substitute the vanilla extract with an equal amount of almond or lemon extract for a different flavor. Start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your taste.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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