Alton Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

This buttery, tender Alton Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe is made with simple ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, butter, and a touch of whole milk. These cookies are perfect for cutting into fun shapes and decorating with royal icing, thanks to a dough that rolls out smoothly and bakes up evenly. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish and yields 2 to 3 dozen cookies, depending on size. They’re ideal for holiday decorating parties or served alongside hot chocolate or tea.

Alton Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sticks unsalted butter, at cool room temperature (60 to 65°F)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon whole milk
• Confectioners’ sugar, for rolling out the dough
• Royal icing, for decorating

How To Make Alton Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe

1. Sift the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Add egg and milk: Add the egg and mix until combined, then add the milk and beat until smooth.
4. Mix in the flour: Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the flour mixture. Beat until dough comes together, about 30 seconds.
5. Chill the dough: Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
6. Prep the oven and pans: Heat oven to 375°F and line two sheet pans with parchment paper.
7. Roll out and cut shapes: Sprinkle work surface with confectioners’ sugar. Roll out one half of dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into shapes and place on prepared pans 1 inch apart.
8. Bake the cookies: Bake for about 10 minutes, rotating pans halfway through, until edges are just starting to brown. Cool on the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
9. Repeat with remaining dough: Roll, cut, and bake the second half.
10. Decorate: Once fully cooled, decorate cookies with royal icing as desired.

Recipe Tips

• Use cool room-temperature butter: Aim for 60–65°F so the dough mixes properly and holds its shape.
• Don’t skip chilling: Cold dough rolls out more easily and keeps its shape in the oven.
• Use confectioners’ sugar to roll: This prevents sticking and adds a slight sweetness without altering the dough texture.
• Rotate your pans: Swapping positions halfway through ensures even baking.
• Don’t overbake: Pull them when edges just begin to color to keep the cookies soft.

How To Serve Sugar Cookies

These sugar cookies are perfect for decorating and displaying on festive dessert tables. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike, especially with colorful icing or sprinkles. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa, warm cider, or a glass of milk for a cozy treat.

How To Store Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer with wax paper to prevent sticking.
Freeze: Freeze un-iced cookies in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw and decorate as desired.

Sugar Cookies Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 9g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 65mg

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can chill the wrapped dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Do I have to use royal icing?
No, you can also use a simple glaze or buttercream for decorating.

Why use confectioners’ sugar for rolling?
It prevents sticking like flour but doesn’t make the dough tough or dry.

Can I re-roll the dough more than once?
It’s best to re-roll only once. After that, the dough becomes tough and loses structure.

Can I use cookie stamps or textured rollers?
Yes! This dough holds patterns well, making it great for imprinted designs.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
• Alton Brown Steak Recipe
• Alton Brown Brownies Recipe