3 ingredient sugar cookies are the simplest way to enjoy homemade treats without the hassle. Made with just butter, sugar, and flour, these cookies come together quickly and bake into soft, buttery rounds with a delicate sweetness.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or when you’re short on ingredients. No eggs, no fancy tools—just a classic, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie anyone can master.
I’ve retested this version to guarantee golden edges, tender centres, and bakery-style flavour every time. Updated & retested: October 2025.
When I first tried these, I couldn’t believe three ingredients could taste this good. Now, it’s the recipe I reach for when I want cookies fast without sacrificing flavour.
3-ingredient sugar cookies are classic homemade cookies made with just butter, sugar, and flour. They’re buttery, soft, and quick to bake, making them one of the easiest cookie recipes for beginners or busy bakers.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What are 3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies?
3 ingredient sugar cookies are a simplified version of the traditional sugar cookie, made with just butter, sugar, and flour. According to the USDA, these staple ingredients form the base of many baked goods, delivering sweetness, structure, and richness.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick & easy — On the table in less than 30 minutes.
- Crowd-pleaser flavour – Classic buttery sweetness everyone loves.
- Pantry ingredients – Just three staples, no special shopping.
- Easy substitutions – Works with gluten-free or dairy-free swaps.
- Make-ahead friendly – Dough can be chilled or frozen.
- Kid-approved & party-ready – Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or quick snacks.
Ingredients (+ Substitutions)
| Ingredient | Substitution / Diet Note |
|---|---|
| 1 cup (224g) salted butter, softened | Use unsalted butter + ½ tsp salt, or vegan butter for dairy-free |
| ⅔ cup (130g) granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling | Coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener for a lower glycemic option |
| 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour | Gluten-free 1:1 baking blend for GF version |
Love the flavour of peanuts? A quick substitute here: [4 ingredient pb cookies].
Quick notes:
- For dairy-free, use plant-based butter.
- For gluten-free, swap in a cup-for-cup GF flour mix.
- To lighten, reduce sugar slightly or use a natural sweetener.
For a festive twist, try pairing these simple sugar cookies with our easy Halloween cookies or add them to a holiday dessert spread alongside Christmas crack.
Equipment
You don’t need much to make these cookies—just the basics. A large mixing bowl and a sturdy spoon or hand mixer will cream the butter and sugar easily. A measuring cup set ensures accurate ingredient portions. Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple, while a baking sheet provides even heat distribution. Finally, a cooling rack helps cookies set properly after baking. With these essentials, you’ll have bakery-style sugar cookies in no time.
Discover more simple and seasonal baking ideas on our RecipesLace Medium page.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Tip: Preheating ensures even baking and golden edges.
2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until smooth.
Note: If butter is too cold, cookies may spread unevenly.
3. Mix in the flour gradually until a dough forms.
Tip: Don’t overmix—stop once flour is fully incorporated.
4. Roll the dough into balls and coat them in extra sugar.
Note: Sugar adds sparkle and crunch.
5. Arrange on a baking sheet and gently flatten each ball.
Tip: Flattening helps even baking.
6. Bake for 15–17 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Note: Overbaking will make cookies dry—watch closely.
7. Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Tip: Cooling prevents crumbling.
Want more fibre? Check out [instant oatmeal cookies] with similar steps.
Common mistakes + quick fixes:
- Dough too crumbly? Add 1 tsp milk.
- Cookies too flat? Chill the dough 15 minutes before baking.
👉 Try pairing with [holiday sugar cookies] or [easy peanut butter cookies without eggs] for variety.
Variations & Serving Ideas
Versions to try:
- Slow cooker – Press dough into a lined slow cooker for cookie bars.
- Oven classic – Stick with the standard bake for crispy edges.
- Air fryer – Bake at 325°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Extra-cheesy – Sprinkle a touch of cream cheese into the dough for tang.
- Mild & kid-friendly – Skip rolling in extra sugar.
- Spicy twist – Add cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the sugar coating.
Serve with: [instant oatmeal cookies] or [4 ingredient pb cookies] for a quick dessert platter.
For an egg-free option, try [easy peanut butter cookies without eggs] same ease with a softer texture.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
Mini-QA:
Can you freeze 3 ingredient sugar cookies?
Yes, freeze baked or unbaked dough up to 2 months in airtight containers.
Best way to reheat?
Microwave briefly or warm in the oven until just soft.
3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies You’ll Love
Equipment
- 1 Mixing bowl For creaming butter and sugar
- 1 Hand mixer or spoon To blend ingredients smoothly
- 1 Baking sheet Line with parchment paper
- 1 Parchment paper Prevents cookies from sticking
- 1 Wire rack For cooling cookies evenly
Ingredients
- 1 cup 224g salted butter softened
- ⅔ cup 130g granulated sugar plus extra for rolling
- 2 cups 240g all-purpose flour leveled
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat them in extra sugar.
- Arrange on a baking sheet and gently flatten each ball with your fingers.
- Bake for 15–17 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
What are the three ingredients for sugar cookies?
Butter, sugar, and flour—just three pantry staples.
How to make 3-ingredient cookie dough?
Cream butter and sugar, then mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
What can I bake with three ingredients?
Cookies, peanut butter bites, or quick oat bars are all simple three-ingredient bakes.
What are the three main ingredients in cookies?
Flour, sugar, and fat (like butter) provide structure, sweetness, and texture.
3 ingredient sugar cookies no egg—do they work?
Yes, this recipe skips eggs completely and still makes tender cookies.
3 ingredient sugar cookies without butter—possible?
You can use margarine or vegan butter, but the flavour may differ.
3 ingredient sugar cookies with egg—should I add one?
Adding an egg changes the texture, making it softer and more cake-like.
Can I add icing to 3 ingredient sugar cookies?
Yes, decorate with simple powdered sugar icing or holiday sprinkles once cooled.
Is this the same as a sugar cookie recipe?
It’s a simplified version of classic sugar cookies with fewer ingredients.
Nutrition
| Per cookie (1 of 24) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Sodium | 45mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredient brands and portions. Actual results may vary.
For nutritional details on no-bake recipes, see [no bake cookies nutrition facts].
Recipe Cost
Making 3 ingredient sugar cookies is budget-friendly. The total batch costs around $3.50–$4.50, depending on butter prices, which equals about $0.15–$0.20 per cookie.
Butter is the biggest cost factor; using store-brand butter lowers the price, while premium butter raises it. Sugar and flour are inexpensive staples, keeping this recipe affordable for any occasion.
Reviews & Reader Tips
Have you tried these 3 ingredient sugar cookies? We’d love to hear your thoughts! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Did you make substitutions like gluten-free flour or vegan butter?
- Add holiday sprinkles, icing, or spices to customise them?
- Have a tip for keeping them extra soft?
Share your tweaks and leave a rating to help other bakers. Your feedback makes this recipe even better for everyone!
Conclusion
These 3 ingredient sugar cookies prove that simple baking can deliver big flavour. With just butter, sugar, and flour, you’ll have soft, buttery cookies perfect for any occasion—from quick weeknight treats to festive holiday platters.
Save this recipe to Pinterest so you’ll always have a go-to cookie idea ready. 🧡
If you enjoyed this, try our [easy peanut butter cookies without eggs] for another fuss-free favourite.
Tested & retested: October 2025
