Quick and easy sugar cookies are the perfect treat to whip up for any occasion. With just three pantry ingredients, these 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or just want a sweet snack, these buttery cookies will satisfy your cravings. They require no eggs and are customizable with sprinkles for extra fun!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: With only three ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare.
- No Eggs Required: Perfect for those who may not have eggs on hand or have egg allergies.
- Versatile Options: Customize your cookies with vanilla extract and colorful sprinkles for added flavor and flair.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy a delightful crunch without the worry of dry cookies; they come out just right every time.
- Great for Any Occasion: These cookies are suitable for parties, bake sales, or simply as a sweet treat at home.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Cookie scoop (or your hands)
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures that your butter and sugar are thoroughly combined for a smooth dough.
- Mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Cookie scoop: Helps in creating evenly sized cookie balls for uniform baking.
Ingredients
Quick and easy sugar cookies made with just three pantry ingredients—no eggs required! These sweet, buttery cookies are simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
For Garnish
- Rainbow sprinkles or nonpareils (optional, but recommended)

How to Make {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar
In a medium bowl, use a handheld electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar. Mix until well combined; expect the mixture to be slightly gritty.
Step 3: Add Flour and Vanilla
Add in the all-purpose flour. If you choose to use it, add the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined into a dough.
Step 4: Form Dough Balls
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls using either a cookie scoop or your hands.
Step 5: Coat in Sugar
Roll each ball in the remaining 3 tablespoons of sugar, lightly coating them before placing them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Flatten Dough Balls
Using the bottom of a measuring cup or glass, gently flatten each dough ball. If using sprinkles, add them on top now and press lightly so they stick.
Step 7: Bake Cookies
Bake in the oven for about 14-16 minutes until edges and bottoms are slightly golden.
Step 8: Cool Down
Remove from the oven and allow cookies to rest on baking sheets for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Enjoy your freshly baked 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies!
How to Serve {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in many ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a casual family gathering or a festive celebration, here are some fun serving suggestions.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s buttery flavor. Serve these cookies with cold milk for a comforting treat.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookies in clear bags and tie them with colorful ribbons. They make charming gifts for guests at birthday parties or holiday gatherings.
With Ice Cream
- Pair these cookies with your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for a delicious treat.
Decorated for Holidays
- Use icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter to decorate these cookies based on the season. This adds a personal touch and makes them even more festive.
Crumbled Over Desserts
- Crush the cookies into bits and sprinkle them over sundaes or puddings. This adds texture and sweetness to your favorite desserts.
With Fresh Fruit
- Serve alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness of the fruit complements the sweet flavor of the cookies beautifully.
How to Perfect {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
Making perfect sugar cookies is easy when you follow these simple tips. Keep these pointers in mind for delicious results every time.
- Use room temperature butter: This helps create a smooth consistency when mixing, resulting in tender cookies.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid using too much, which can lead to dry cookies.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly and maintain their shape.
- Experiment with flavors: Add extracts like almond or lemon zest for a unique twist on classic sugar cookies.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be just slightly golden around the edges.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their texture and freshness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your sugar cookies can enhance your dessert table experience. Here are some tasty options that complement these sweet treats well.
- Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies. - Chocolate Fondue
Melted chocolate served with dippable items like strawberries or marshmallows creates an interactive dessert experience. - Mini Cheesecakes
Creamy cheesecakes provide richness that pairs delightfully with sugar cookies, offering variety in flavor and texture. - Coffee or Tea
Serving warm beverages like coffee or tea enhances the flavors of the sugar cookies while providing a cozy feel. - Yogurt Parfaits
Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy option that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of sugar cookies. - Pudding Cups
Chocolate or vanilla pudding cups bring creaminess that complements the crumbly texture of sugar cookies perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies can be a breeze, but mistakes can happen. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.
- Using too much flour: This can lead to dry and crumbly cookies. Always spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use proper measuring cups for both liquid and dry ingredients to ensure the right balance.
- Overbaking the cookies: Keeping an eye on them is crucial. Bake until the edges are just slightly golden; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Skipping the chilling time: If you chill your dough before baking, it helps maintain shape and improve texture. If you have time, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Ignoring optional ingredients: Vanilla extract and sprinkles add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip these unless necessary!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container after they are solid.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and heat cookies for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet with a lid for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions
How many cookies does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 34 delicious cookies, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.
Can I use salted butter instead?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce or omit additional salt in your recipe if you choose this option.
What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
You can skip it or substitute with other flavorings like almond extract or leave it out entirely for plain sugar cookies.
Can I customize my {3-Ingredient} Easy Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or different types of sprinkles to customize flavors and textures according to your preference.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
These 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies are not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking with kids or looking for a quick treat, these cookies are sure to delight everyone!

3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 34 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the simplicity and delight of 3-Ingredient Easy Sugar Cookies! These buttery treats are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for any celebration or just a sweet snack at home. With only three pantry staples, you can create cookies that are soft, customizable, and utterly delicious. No eggs are required, so they’re an excellent option for those with allergies or simply running low on ingredients. Add a splash of vanilla extract and colorful sprinkles to elevate your cookies even more. Whether you’re baking with kids or need a quick dessert for guests, these sugar cookies will surely impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2/3 cup + 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided)
- 2 cups + 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Rainbow sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar until slightly gritty.
- Add the all-purpose flour and vanilla extract (if using), mixing until combined into a dough.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in remaining sugar, and place on prepared sheets.
- Flatten each ball gently and sprinkle with rainbow sprinkles if desired.
- Bake for 14-16 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on baking sheets for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 18g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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