Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies
A classic American butter cookie coated in coarse sugar, with a crisp exterior, soft interior, and pure vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
vanilla sugar (vanilla seeds mixed with sugar)
1/2 cup
vanilla bean (seeds scraped out)
1/2
all-purpose flour
2.5 cup
baking powder
3/4 tsp
salt
1/2 tsp
unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup (2)
powdered sugar
1/2 cup
large egg
1
coarse sugar (for sprinkling on cookies)
to taste
Instructions
1
Prepare the oven and baking sheets
Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 375°F. Lightly grease two baking sheets.
2
Make vanilla sugar
Place the granulated sugar in a small bowl. Using a small knife, slice the vanilla bean lengthwise in half and scrape the tiny seeds inside into the bowl of sugar; discard the pod. Mix the sugar and vanilla seeds together with your fingers until well combined. Set aside.
3
Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
4
Make the dough
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar mixture on medium-high speed until light in texture and color, about 2 minutes. Add the egg and beat until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Reduce the speed to low, add the flour mixture, and mix until just combined.
5
Shape and bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Dampen your hands to prevent sticking and press each cookie into a 1.75-inch disk. Generously sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake one sheet at a time for 9 to 11 minutes, until the edges are golden. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
