Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Special equipment needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form the dough into 1-inch balls.
7. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 cookies

Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 cookie):
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 21g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 1g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe by 1/4 teaspoon.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor.

Variations:
- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
- Mix in 1/2 cup of sprinkles for a funfetti version.
- Use different colored sugars for rolling the dough to match different holidays or occasions.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar to ensure a smooth and fluffy texture.
- Don't overmix the dough once the dry ingredients are added, or the cookies will become tough.
- For even-sized cookies, use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough.

Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the cookies, place them in a 350°F oven for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Top each cookie with a small dollop of whipped cream and a fresh berry for a fancy touch.

Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea.

Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served alongside fresh fruit or a cheese plate.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cookies are spreading too much during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the cookies are too dry, try reducing the baking time by a minute or two.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw dough to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Food history:
Sugar cookies have been a popular treat in America since the 1700s, and were often served during holidays and special occasions.

Flavor profiles:
These sugar cookies are sweet and buttery, with a slightly crisp exterior and a soft and chewy interior.

Serving suggestions:
Enjoy these cookies as a snack or dessert, or package them up as a gift for friends and family.

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Taste: Sweet, Buttery, Sugary, Vanilla, Comforting