Name: Easy Grandma Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488128H39M55S
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup salted butter, softened; 2 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon almond extract; 2½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; Red and green sanding sugars (for decorating)

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I always come back to these easy grandma sugar cookies when I want something soft, buttery, and packed with that classic homemade flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples and a touch of cream cheese, they turn out perfect every time—ideal for holidays or anytime I want something sweet and simple.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these cookies are so easy to make, yet taste like something straight from a holiday memory. The cream cheese adds a rich, tender texture that keeps them moist for days. I don’t need to frost them—just a sprinkle of colored sugar gives them the perfect festive touch. They’re also freezer-friendly, so I can always have a batch ready to go.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup salted butter, softened
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract
2½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
Red and green sanding sugars (for decorating)

Directions

I beat the softened butter and cream cheese together with the sugar, eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until everything is fluffy—usually about 4 to 5 minutes.
I scrape down the bowl and then slowly mix in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt just until a dough forms.
I cover the dough and chill it for at least 2 hours—this helps the cookies hold their shape.
I preheat the oven to 350°F, roll the dough into 1-inch balls, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
I gently press each cookie with a fork in a crisscross pattern and sprinkle generously with sanding sugar.
I bake for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the edges are set. I take them out before they brown so they stay soft.
I let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a cooling rack.

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 36 cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 9 to 11 minutes per batch
Total Time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes

Variations

I skip the almond extract when I want a more classic vanilla flavor.
For a softer color palette, I sometimes use pastel sanding sugars instead of red and green.
I’ve also added a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg during the holidays for a warm twist.

Storage / Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
I freeze the dough balls or baked cookies for up to 3 months—great for making ahead.
When frozen, I let the cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for a just-baked feel.

FAQs

1. Do I have to chill the dough?

Yes, I always chill the dough for at least 2 hours. It helps prevent spreading and keeps the cookies thick and soft.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. I roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When I’m ready, I bake them straight from frozen—just adding a minute or two to the bake time.

3. What if I don’t have cream cheese?

The cream cheese gives these cookies their soft texture, but in a pinch, I’ve used all butter. The cookies come out a bit crisper but still delicious.

4. Can I make these without the colored sugar?

Yes. I’ve made them plain or with white sugar on top for a more neutral look, and they still taste amazing.

5. Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If that happens, I check that my butter wasn’t too soft and make sure the dough was properly chilled. I also avoid overmixing after adding the flour.

Conclusion

These easy grandma sugar cookies are everything I want in a nostalgic, holiday-worthy treat—soft, sweet, and full of homemade charm. I love how effortless they are to make and how beautifully they hold up for gifting, snacking, or sharing with family. Once I tried them, they became a go-to recipe I reach for every season.