Small Batch Sugar Cookies for the Ultimate Treat

Craving something sweet? These small batch sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and easy to make, perfect for quick treats without the leftovers!

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 Cookies

Calories 130 kcal

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.

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.

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.

Stir in:
1 egg yolk
¼ tsp vanilla extract
Mix until fully incorporated. The dough ought to be smooth and silky in texture.

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.

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 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.

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.

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

Keyword easy cookie recipe, Homemade Cookies, one-bowl sugar cookies, small batch sugar cookies