Print

Grandma’s Sugar Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Soft, chewy, and full of nostalgic flavor, Grandma’s Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat made with pantry staples and a hint of Meyer lemon zest. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or everyday baking.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 dozen cookies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
  • Zest from 1 Meyer lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
  3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
  4. Add in the oil and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until smooth.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Whisk to combine.
  6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low until fully incorporated.
  7. Use a medium cookie scoop to portion dough. Roll into balls with your hands.
  8. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on the cookie sheets.
  9. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork or glass.
  10. Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
  11. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before storing.

Notes

  • For cut-out cookies, chill dough for 30 minutes before rolling.
  • Freeze unbaked dough balls in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
  • Use coarse sugar for extra crunch or cinnamon sugar for added flavor.
  • Don’t skip cream of tartar—it’s key to a chewy texture.
  • Ensure butter is at room temperature, not melted.

Nutrition