Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1 Tbsp. whole milk
- 2 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp. almond extract (optional for classic sugar cookie vibes)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1 ½ tsp. baking powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Decoration
- 1/2 cup red and green jimmies sprinkles (plus more as desired)
- ~1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling and garnishing)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, cream the unsalted butter and 1 ½ cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand or stand mixer. Add the egg and egg yolk one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in whole milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Add sprinkles to dough: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of red and green jimmies sprinkles to evenly distribute throughout the dough for sparkle and flavor.
- Chill the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up, making it easier to handle and helping to maintain cookie shape during baking.
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Shape the cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out dough balls. Roll each ball in the remaining granulated sugar, then flatten slightly and press additional sprinkles on top as desired for extra decoration.
- Bake: Place the prepared cookie dough balls on baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set properly and prevents breakage.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spreading and achieving thicker cookies.
- For a more pronounced almond flavor, increase almond extract to 1/2 tsp but do not exceed to avoid overpowering vanilla.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing and better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Substitute sprinkles with colored sugar crystals if jimmies are unavailable.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
