Spiced Sugar Cookies

These spiced sugar cookies smelled amazing the moment they came out of the oven. Warm spice filled the air. I couldn’t wait to grab one.

The taste is sweet with a hint of cozy spice. The edges are crisp, and the centers stay soft. Every bite feels like a little hug.

I kept reaching for another because they’re just so good. The spice makes them special, not just plain sugar cookies. They’re perfect for any season.

You should bake these too. Make a batch, taste the cozy flavor, and share them with friends or family. It’s simple joy in a cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A Festive Twist: Classic sugar cookies with a warming spice blend make these ideal for fall and winter baking.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: With the perfect balance of butter and sugar, these cookies stay tender.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward process make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies keep well and make a great holiday treat.
• Customizable: Roll them in cinnamon sugar, top them with icing, or add mix-ins like nuts or raisins.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Wire cooling rack
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these aromatic cookies (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies spread and rise slightly.
• Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Ground Ginger: Provides a mild heat and spiciness.
• Nutmeg (Optional): A hint of nutmeg enhances the holiday flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Brings richness and moisture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and adds a slight crunch to the cookie coating.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and chewiness.
• Egg: Binds everything together.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

Variations for Spiced Sugar Cookies

• Make It Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom for an even richer flavor.
• Use Dark Brown Sugar: This creates a deeper, more caramelized flavor.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Add Mix-Ins: Fold in chopped nuts, raisins, or white chocolate chips for texture.
• Make It Crunchy: Bake for an extra 2 minutes for a crispier cookie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Set aside.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). This helps the flavors meld and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

6. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

7. Shape and Coat the Cookies

Scoop dough into 1.5-inch balls and roll them in granulated sugar for a classic sugar-crusted finish. Place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.

8. Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers may appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.

9. Cool

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Spiced Sugar Cookies

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with different serving ideas:

• With Coffee or Tea: The warm spices pair beautifully with a hot beverage.
• Drizzle with Glaze: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a simple icing.
• Sandwich with Buttercream: Use spiced buttercream for an indulgent treat.
• Dip in Chocolate: Partially dip cookies in melted white or dark chocolate for extra flavor.

Storing Spiced Sugar Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for extended freshness.
• Freezing: Freeze the dough balls before baking or freeze fully baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Sugar
120	18g	1.5g	5g	10g

Spiced Sugar Cookies FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking or freeze the dough balls for later use.

Can I use other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add cloves, cardamom, or allspice for a unique twist.

How do I make them softer?

For extra softness, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches.

Enjoy these delicious Spiced Sugar Cookies for a cozy, comforting treat any time of year!