Simple Homemade Cookies – Soft, Buttery & Perfect for Everyday Baking

These Simple Homemade Cookies are soft, buttery, and incredibly easy to make using basic pantry ingredients. Perfect for beginner bakers, busy families, and last-minute desserts, this classic cookie recipe delivers delicious results every single time. With a tender center and lightly golden edges, these cookies are ideal for snacks, lunchboxes, holiday trays, or cozy evenings with a cup of tea or milk. Simple, comforting, and completely irresistible!

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Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins

• Chocolate chips

• Sprinkles

• Chopped nuts

• M&M’s

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking trays with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar:
   In a bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add Egg & Vanilla:
   Mix in egg and vanilla until smooth.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients.

5. Add Mix-Ins:
   Fold in chocolate chips or desired add-ins.

6. Shape Cookies:
   Scoop dough into 1-tablespoon portions and place on baking sheet.

7. Bake:
   Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.

8. Cool:
   Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use room-temperature butter for smooth dough.

• Do not overmix to keep cookies tender.

• Chill dough 20 minutes for thicker cookies.

• Bake until edges are set but centers look soft.

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Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 1 cup chocolate chips.

• Sugar Cookies: Skip add-ins and roll in sugar.

• Oatmeal Cookies: Replace ½ cup flour with oats.

• Double Chocolate Cookies: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips.

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Nutrition Information (Per Cookie – Approximate)

• Calories: 140

• Protein: 2 g

• Fat: 7 g

• Carbohydrates: 18 g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze cookie dough?
Yes! Freeze dough balls for up to 2 months.

2. How long do homemade cookies stay fresh?
Up to 5 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour.

4. Why are my cookies flat?
Butter may be too soft — chill dough before baking.

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These Simple Homemade Cookies are easy, classic, and delicious — the perfect everyday cookie recipe for any occasion.