Sugar Cookies (Real Simple)

Makes 36 medium cookies Hands-On Time: 25m Total Time: 1hr 15m Note: Total time includes cooling time

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for the work surface
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Coarse sanding sugar or turbinado sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350° F. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
2. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until smooth. Add the egg and beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes. Beat in the vanilla.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just incorporated (the dough will be stiff). Shape into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm, at least 1 hour.
4. On a floured surface, roll the dough to ¼ inch thick. Using cookie cutters, cut into shapes. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them 1½ inches apart. Sprinkle with the sanding sugar, if using.
5. Bake until just beginning to brown at the edges, 10 to 12 minutes. Cool slightly on baking sheets, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
6. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.