The easiest cookie recipe
Ingredients
(Makes about 12-15 cookies)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, nuts, sprinkles, or dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the dough: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Use a spoon or hand mixer to mix until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and salt (if using), and mix again.
- Add the flour: Gradually add the flour to the butter-sugar mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to bring it together.
- Customize your cookies: Fold in your favorite add-ins, like chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles. This step is optional, but it’s a great way to make the cookies your own.
- Shape the cookies: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Pop the cookies into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Grab a glass of milk and enjoy your homemade treats!
