🌞 Intro
There’s something magical about baking sugar cookies in the summertime. Whether it’s for a backyard BBQ, a 4th of July picnic, or just a lazy afternoon with the kids, these Summer Sugar Cookies bring smiles and sweet memories. Soft in the center with lightly crisp edges, they’re easy to decorate, hard to resist, and perfect for making seasonal celebrations feel extra special.
🍪 Ingredients for Summer Sugar Cookies
🧂 Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
🧈 Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temp)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional for fresh summer flavor)
🌈 Optional for decorating:
- Colorful sanding sugar
- Royal icing
- Edible flowers or sprinkles
🧑🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Make the Perfect Summer Sugar Cookies:
- Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter & Sugar
- In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 mins).
- Add Egg & Vanilla
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract (plus lemon zest if using).
- Combine Dry with Wet
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Shape & Chill
- Scoop 1-inch dough balls and roll them in sanding sugar if desired. Chill dough for 30 mins (prevents spreading).
- Bake & Cool
- Bake for 8–10 mins until edges are just golden. Let cool on wire rack.
🍭 Optional Variations & Substitutes
- Citrus Burst: Swap lemon zest for orange or lime for a fruity twist.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg.
- Gluten-Free: Sub 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for 4–5 days.
- Freeze baked cookies up to 2 months; thaw at room temp.
- Reheat in microwave for 10 seconds to soften.
🧾 Nutrition Info (Per Cookie)
Approximate values
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 6g
- Sugar: 10g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 1g
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chill it in the fridge for up to 48 hours or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q2: How do I keep sugar cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread—it keeps moisture in!
Q3: Can I decorate these with kids?
Yes! These cookies are perfect for decorating with children using colored icing and sprinkles.
Craving more summer sweets? Check out myEasy Rhubarb Cookies Recipe – Chewy, Tart & Sweet Treats! —they’re a tangy and buttery delight!
💡 Expert CookWithKushal Tip
To keep your cookies looking picture-perfect, use a cookie scoop for even sizing and slightly flatten each dough ball before baking. For extra softness, don’t overbake—cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when pulled from the oven.