Soft & Buttery Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies

Name: Soft & Buttery Easter Bunny Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Hi I'm Benjamin

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 14, 2025

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Some recipes aren’t just about food—they’re about memories. For me, Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies take me straight back to my childhood, standing on a stool in my grandmother’s kitchen, watching her roll out the dough with precision. She never measured, never second-guessed. Everything was done by feel—adding just enough flour until the dough was “right” and knowing the cookies were done by the golden edges, not the timer.

The best part? Decorating them. My siblings and I would huddle around the table, spreading icing, sprinkling sugar, and sneaking more than a few bites along the way. Some cookies turned out beautiful, others were complete disasters, but every batch was made with love.

Now, as an adult, I find myself recreating that same experience. These sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and full of rich vanilla flavor. They hold their shape beautifully, making them perfect for cut-out designs, yet they’re just as delicious plain. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday, a party, or simply a cozy night in, they bring warmth, nostalgia, and the simple joy of homemade treats.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

1. Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

These cookies are made with pantry staples—flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla—yet they create a classic flavor that’s both rich and delicate.

2. Soft and Chewy with Crisp Edges

A well-balanced sugar cookie has a slightly crisp edge and a soft, tender center. This recipe achieves just that with the right balance of butter and sugar.

3. Perfect for Decorating

Because this dough holds its shape so well, it’s ideal for cookie cutters and intricate designs. You can decorate them with royal icing, buttercream, or a simple dusting of sugar.

4. Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

These cookies store beautifully! You can make the dough in advance, freeze it, or even bake a batch and keep them ready for decorating later.

Enjoy them plain, add sprinkles, mix in citrus zest, or sandwich them with jam or chocolate—these cookies can be customized to fit any occasion.

Dry Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions: Baking the Perfect Batch

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Preheat & Shape: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into desired shapes.
Bake to Perfection: Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Sweet Indulgence

(Per cookie, approximate values)

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fats: 9g
Protein: 2g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 60mg

These Classic Vanilla Sugar Cookies are buttery, soft, and full of rich vanilla flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether decorated or enjoyed plain, they’re a delightful treat every time!

How to Customize Your Sugar Cookies

1. Add a Flavor Twist

Almond Extract: Swap out half the vanilla for almond extract for a nutty, bakery-style flavor.
Citrus Zest: Lemon or orange zest adds a fresh, bright touch.
Spiced Sugar Cookies: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg makes them perfect for fall baking.

2. Decorate Like a Pro

Royal Icing: For intricate designs, use royal icing that hardens beautifully.
Buttercream Frosting: Creamy and rich, buttercream adds extra indulgence.
Sprinkles & Sugar Crystals: Roll the dough in sugar before baking for a simple, sparkly finish.

3. Shape Them for Any Occasion

Use cookie cutters to create shapes for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or any celebration.
For a rustic look, simply roll the dough into balls and flatten with a glass before baking.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Sugar Cookies

1. A Classic Glass of Milk

There’s nothing more nostalgic than dunking a warm sugar cookie into a cold glass of milk—a perfect combination of creamy and sweet.

2. Coffee or Tea for a Cozy Treat

Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for an afternoon pick-me-up or holiday gathering.

3. Ice Cream Sandwiches

Sandwich two cookies with vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.

4. Fruit Compotes or Jams

A side of berry jam, lemon curd, or caramel sauce adds a tangy contrast to the buttery cookies.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Butter

Softened butter creams better with sugar, creating a light and airy texture. If the butter is too cold, the cookies may be dense.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best texture.

3. Chill the Dough for Better Shape

Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes prevents spreading and makes it easier to roll out.

4. Roll Dough Evenly for Consistent Baking

Use rolling pin rings or two rulers on each side of your dough to ensure even thickness. This helps all cookies bake at the same rate.

5. Watch the Bake Time

Sugar cookies should be lightly golden on the edges but still pale in the center when they come out of the oven. They’ll continue to set as they cool.

FAQs About Sugar Cookies

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

2. How do I keep my cookies from spreading?

Chilling the dough before baking and using cool baking sheets helps the cookies hold their shape. Also, avoid over-softened butter.

3. Can I freeze baked sugar cookies?

Yes! Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 2 months.

4. Why are my cookies hard instead of soft?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can make them hard. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden.

5. What’s the best way to decorate them?

For a simple look, dust them with powdered sugar. For intricate designs, use royal icing and let it dry before stacking.

6. Can I use this recipe for drop cookies instead of rolled ones?

Yes! Just scoop the dough, roll into balls, and bake as is. You’ll get soft, round cookies without rolling or cutting.

There’s something timeless about a classic vanilla sugar cookie. Whether it’s a holiday tradition, a special occasion, or just a craving for something sweet, this recipe never disappoints.

Baking these cookies isn’t just about the final product—it’s about the memories made along the way. It’s about flour-dusted countertops, the smell of vanilla filling the kitchen, and the simple joy of biting into a perfectly baked cookie.

So, whether you’re baking these for your family, gifting them to friends, or simply treating yourself, know that you’re creating something special. A cookie may seem small, but it has the power to bring people together—one sweet bite at a time.