Basic Sugar Cookies - Tried and True Since 1960

Recipe View In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. (Estimated time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. (Estimated time: 2 minutes)

Recipe View Gradually add the self-rising flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. (Estimated time: 3 minutes)

Recipe View Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the gluten to relax and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. (Estimated time: 120 minutes)

Recipe View Preheat your oven to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. (Estimated time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. (Estimated time: 15 minutes)

Recipe View Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each. Sprinkle with additional sugar, if desired. (Estimated time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. (Estimated time: 15 minutes)

Recipe View Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. (Estimated time: 10 minutes)