Vanilla Bean Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of vanilla beans with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will guide you through creating the perfect batch of vanilla bean sugar cookies that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar to coat.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
FAQs
Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla beans?
Yes, you can substitute vanilla extract for vanilla beans. Use about 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for every vanilla bean called for in the recipe.
How do I store vanilla bean sugar cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add other flavors or ingredients?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even citrus zest for a twist on the classic vanilla bean sugar cookies.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
Are these cookies suitable for special diets?
This recipe contains gluten and dairy. To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute.