Have you ever craved something sweet but didn’t want to bake a whole dozen? These small batch sugar cookies are your answer to a quick dessert fix without the fuss. Soft, buttery, and perfectly chewy, they deliver all the comfort of classic homemade cookies—just in a more manageable portion.
Whether you’re baking for a quiet night in or simply treating yourself, this easy cookie recipe comes together in one bowl with simple pantry staples. No chill time, no stand mixer—just pure cookie joy in under 30 minutes.
Let’s turn your craving into the ultimate treat—small, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying.
Why You’ll Love These Small Batch Sugar Cookies
Sometimes, all you need is a small yield baking win—something quick, simple, and deeply satisfying. This is exactly what these small batch sugar cookies provide. Whether you’re baking for one, a cozy duo, or just avoiding leftovers, this recipe is the sweet spot between convenience and comfort.
Here’s why this recipe might just become your go-to:
Quick and Simple: These cookies require minimal preparation and no chilling, ready to enjoy in about 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for last-minute cravings or spontaneous baking.
Simple Pantry Ingredients: No fancy flours or hard-to-find items—just everyday staples like butter, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. You probably already have all the ingredients you need.
One-Bowl Wonder: Fewer dishes = more joy. Everything comes together in a single mixing bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
Perfect Texture: These cookies strike that delicious balance between soft sugar cookies and chewy centers, with crisp, golden edges.
Customizable: Want a citrusy twist? Add lemon zest. Craving something a little nutty? A dash of almond extract works wonders. The base is simple enough to let you play.
Portion-Control Friendly: You’ll end up with just enough cookies to enjoy without worrying about waste—or overindulgence (unless you want to, no judgment here!).
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the world of homemade cookies, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction with ease. Ready to bake a small batch that brings big joy? Let’s dive in.
Gather Your Ingredients for Small Batch Sugar Cookies
Before we get started, let’s round up everything you’ll need for this easy cookie recipe. The beauty of small batch baking is how little you actually need—just a handful of pantry staples and a little love.
Here’s what you’ll need:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Room temperature butter blends smoothly and helps create that classic, buttery texture.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Just the right amount for sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor.
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
Contributes a subtle caramel-like richness and enhances chewiness. Totally optional, but lovely.
1 egg yolk
Using just the yolk gives richness and helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
A little goes a long way to enhance the flavor—don’t skip it!
¼ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
This measured amount is perfect for a balanced dough—light but sturdy enough to hold shape.
⅛ teaspoon baking powder
Just enough to add a gentle lift without puffing the cookies too much.
A pinch of salt
This tiny addition sharpens all the sweet flavors. Yes, it makes a difference!
Optional, but delightful:
Extra sugar for rolling
Before baking, coat the dough balls lightly with sugar to achieve a crisp, sparkling finish.
How to Make Small Batch Sugar Cookies
Let’s bring this one-bowl cookie recipe to life! These small batch sugar cookies come together quickly and easily, making them perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving a homemade treat.
Follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This promotes even baking and simplifies cleanup.
2. Cream the butter and sugars
In a medium bowl, combine and cream together using a spoon or hand mixer:
3 tbsp softened unsalted butter
3 tbsp granulated sugar
(optional) 1 tbsp brown sugar
Mix until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving the buttery, tender sugar cookie texture everyone enjoys.
3. Add the wet ingredients
Stir in:
1 egg yolk
¼ tsp vanilla extract
Mix until fully incorporated. The dough ought to be smooth and silky in texture.
4. Add the dry ingredients
Sprinkle in:
¼ cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
⅛ tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Stir gently until the ingredients combine into a soft dough. Avoid overmixing—it can make the cookies tough instead of chewy.
5. Form and prep the cookies
Portion the dough into 1 to 1.5-inch balls using a cookie scoop or spoon. If you’d like a little sparkle and crunch, roll them in granulated sugar.
Arrange them roughly 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the tops with your fingers for an even bake.
6. Bake to perfection
Bake them in the oven for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are firm and beginning to turn golden. The centers should look soft—they’ll finish setting as they cool.
7. Cool and enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or at room temp—either way, they’re irresistible.
Pro Tips and Delicious Variations
Want to make your small batch sugar cookies truly unforgettable? Here are some tried-and-true baking tips and creative twists to help you customize your cookies like a pro—all while keeping things simple and stress-free.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
Measure Precisely
In small batch baking, every tablespoon counts. For consistent results, use a digital scale or carefully level off your measuring cups.
Soften Butter, Not Melt It
Butter at room temperature should be soft enough to leave an indentation when pressed, but not greasy or melted. This ensures the ideal buttery texture for your cookies.
Don’t Overmix the Dough
Stir just until the flour disappears. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy centers we’re after.
Check Your Bake Early
Since ovens differ, begin checking at the 8-minute mark. You’re aiming for golden edges and soft centers—they’ll firm up as they cool.
Cool on the Sheet First
Let cookies rest for a couple of minutes on the baking tray before transferring. This helps avoid breakage and allows the baking to finish gently.
Tasty Variations to Try
Looking to switch things up? Here are a few fun and flavorful ideas to make these homemade cookies your own:
Citrus Zest Twist
Incorporate ½ teaspoon of lemon or orange zest into the dough for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Almond Infusion
Swap out half the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty, nostalgic twist.
Cinnamon Sugar Crunch
Mix 1 tablespoon sugar with ½ teaspoon cinnamon and roll dough balls in it before baking for a warm, spiced finish.
Sprinkle Joy
Fold in colorful sprinkles to turn them into funfetti sugar cookies—perfect for birthdays or celebrations.
Mini Chocolate Chips
Want a cross between a sugar cookie and a chocolate chip? Add a few tablespoons of mini chips for the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re sticking with the classic or trying a new flavor combo, this flexible simple sugar cookie recipe makes it easy to get creative—no fancy skills or equipment needed.
Now that you’ve got some ideas in your back pocket, let’s explore the best ways to serve and enjoy these irresistible cookies.
Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Small Batch Treat
Once your small batch sugar cookies are cooled and ready, the real fun begins—eating and sharing them! These quick dessert gems are as versatile as they are delicious, making them perfect for all kinds of cozy moments or casual gatherings.
Here are a few thoughtful ways to serve and enjoy them:
Pair with a Warm Beverage
Savor alongside a warm mug of coffee, tea, or cocoa for a cozy midday snack.
Try them with a flavored latte (vanilla or cinnamon works beautifully) to echo the cookie’s sweet, buttery notes.
Keep It Classic with Milk
Few experiences compare to the nostalgic pleasure of homemade cookies paired with cold milk.
For a fun twist, dunk them in a chilled glass of almond or oat milk—great for plant-based fans!
Turn Them Into Thoughtful Gifts
Pack a few cookies in a small paper box or clear treat bag, tie with ribbon, and gift them to a friend or neighbor.
Perfect for quick thank-you gifts, party favors, or just a little “thinking of you” moment.
Serve with Ice Cream
Crumble a cookie over vanilla or caramel ice cream for a dreamy dessert upgrade.
Or sandwich a scoop between two cookies for a mini ice cream sandwich moment!
Create a Dessert Board
Add your cookies to a small dessert grazing board with other treats like fruit, mini brownies, and chocolate squares.
A beautiful, low-effort way to impress guests or enjoy a special night in.
Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or planning a small celebration, these easy sugar cookies fit right in. Next, let’s wrap things up and cover a few common questions to make sure you feel confident and inspired every time you bake.
Wrapping Up: The Joy of Small Batch Sugar Cookies
And there you have it—small batch sugar cookies that check every box: soft, chewy, buttery, and irresistibly easy. Whether you’re baking solo, making a quick treat for two, or simply satisfying a spontaneous craving, this simple sugar cookie recipe delivers big flavor in a small, manageable batch.
Here’s what makes this recipe a must-save and share:
Fast and fuss-free with minimal cleanup
Made with pantry-friendly ingredients
Great for beginners and expert bakers alike
Flexible enough for flavor add-ins and fun variations
A great way to enjoy the moment without overcommitting to a huge batch
Final Thought:
Baking doesn’t always have to be about volume or perfection. Sometimes, the most comforting desserts come in the form of a few warm, homemade cookies enjoyed with a cup of tea and a quiet evening. This easy cookie recipe invites you to slow down and savor life’s little treats—one bite at a time.
Now that you’ve got the recipe and the know-how, all that’s left to do is preheat your oven and get baking. You deserve a cookie (or three).
Explore more irresistible cookie recipes you won’t want to miss:
Small Batch Sugar Cookies for the Ultimate Treat
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- Room temperature butter blends smoothly and helps create that classic buttery texture.
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- Just the right amount for sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavor.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
- Contributes a subtle caramel-like richness and enhances chewiness. Totally optional but lovely.
- 1 egg yolk
- Using just the yolk gives richness and helps keep the cookies soft and tender.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A little goes a long way to enhance the flavor—don’t skip it!
- ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- This measured amount is perfect for a balanced dough—light but sturdy enough to hold shape.
- ⅛ teaspoon baking powder
- Just enough to add a gentle lift without puffing the cookies too much.
- A pinch of salt
- This tiny addition sharpens all the sweet flavors. Yes it makes a difference!
- Optional but delightful:
- Extra sugar for rolling
- Before baking coat the dough balls lightly with sugar to achieve a crisp, sparkling finish.
Instructions
Preheat your oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This promotes even baking and simplifies cleanup.
Cream the butter and sugars
- In a medium bowl, combine and cream together using a spoon or hand mixer:
- 3 tbsp softened unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
- (optional) 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Mix until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving the buttery, tender sugar cookie texture everyone enjoys.
Add the wet ingredients
- Stir in:
- 1 egg yolk
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- Mix until fully incorporated. The dough ought to be smooth and silky in texture.
Add the dry ingredients
- Sprinkle in:
- ¼ cup + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ⅛ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Stir gently until the ingredients combine into a soft dough. Avoid overmixing—it can make the cookies tough instead of chewy.
Form and prep the cookies
- Portion the dough into 1 to 1.5-inch balls using a cookie scoop or spoon. If you’d like a little sparkle and crunch, roll them in granulated sugar.
- Arrange them roughly 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Slightly flatten the tops with your fingers for an even bake.
Bake to perfection
- Bake them in the oven for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are firm and beginning to turn golden. The centers should look soft—they’ll finish setting as they cool.
Cool and enjoy
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or at room temp—either way, they’re irresistible.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 0.3g
- Total Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 1.5g