Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

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If you’re craving something sweet but don’t want a mountain of leftovers, these homemade small batch sugar cookies are exactly what you need. Soft in the center with just the right amount of chew around the edges, they bring classic comfort in a scaled-down size. Perfect for a cozy night in, a thoughtful gift, or a spontaneous baking urge.

These cookies come together in one bowl and require no chill time, so you can be biting into warm, buttery goodness in under 30 minutes. Whether you frost them or leave them plain, they have the kind of flavor that brings you right back to childhood kitchens and holiday memories.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies Recipe

They’re incredibly easy to make and don’t require any fancy equipment. A bowl, a spoon, and a baking sheet are really all you need. You can also customize them with sprinkles, a drizzle of chocolate, or your favorite frosting if you’re feeling extra indulgent. Best of all, this recipe makes just the right number of cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard.

Can I Make These Sugar Cookies Without a Cookie Cutter?

Absolutely! You can roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass. If you want to get creative, use the rim of a glass or jar lid as an impromptu cutter. Either way, you’ll end up with delicious sugar cookies that taste every bit as good as they look.

Ingredients for the Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

This recipe keeps things simple, but each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect soft-yet-chewy sugar cookie.

• All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies structure.
• Baking powder: Provides a gentle lift so they don’t end up too flat.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavor of the sugar and butter.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps the cookies stay tender.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens and gives that classic sugar cookie texture.
• Egg yolk: One yolk is all you need to bind the dough and create chewiness.
• Vanilla extract: Brings warm, nostalgic flavor.

How To Make the Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Stir until a soft dough forms. If it feels a bit dry, you can add a tiny splash of milk.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Flatten slightly with your palm.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let them cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve and Store Homemade Small Batch Sugar Cookies

This recipe yields about 6 to 8 cookies, which is perfect for a couple or a small family. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or crumble one over ice cream for a simple dessert upgrade.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them (either baked or unbaked dough) for longer storage.

What to Serve With Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

Nothing pairs better with a classic sugar cookie than a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate.

Ice Cream

Use the cookies as a base for an ice cream sandwich or simply crumble them over your favorite scoop.

Fresh Berries

For a light contrast, serve these cookies with a side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of homemade whipped cream on a sugar cookie is heaven in one bite.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Spread a little on top if you’re craving a more decadent version.

Coffee or Espresso

Perfect for dipping and savoring every last crumb.

Lemon Curd

Add a tangy twist with a spoonful of lemon curd on the side.

Fruit Compote

Warm fruit compote makes these cookies feel even more comforting on cool days.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these small batch sugar cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these too:

• Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies for a cinnamon-sugar punch.
• Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies when you want ooey-gooey nostalgia.
• Lemon Truffles Recipe if you’re a fan of zesty, creamy bites.
• Classic French Butter Cookies for a rich, crumbly treat.
• Easter Cake Mix Cookie Bars when you’re short on time but want big flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you top them with frosting? Add sprinkles? Use almond extract instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Homemade small batch sugar cookies are the ultimate solution when you’re short on time but still want that buttery, sweet treat fresh from your oven. They’re easy, versatile, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you eat them plain, frosted, or as part of a dessert duo, they’re bound to become a new go-to favorite.

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