Best Sugar Cookie Recipe – Soft, Chewy, and Perfect for Every Occasion

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, combine sugar and cream cheese, then pour in warm melted butter. Whisk until mostly smooth.

Whisk in vegetable oil, then add egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix until glossy and smooth.

Gradually fold in dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.

Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in extra sugar.

Place dough balls on baking sheet about 2 inches apart and flatten to about 2 inches wide using a flat-bottomed glass.

Bake for 11–13 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until edges are lightly golden.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.