Chai Sugar Cookies Recipe: Heavenly Spiced Bliss

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Looking for a delightful treat that fills your home with warmth and spice? These Chai Sugar Cookies are just the right answer! They are soft, sweet, and have a cozy chai flavor that feels like a hug in cookie form. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on a quiet evening, this recipe is easy to follow, even for kitchen newbies.

Why You’ll Love This Chai Sugar Cookie Recipe

These Chai Sugar Cookies are perfect for beginners because they use simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated techniques. The cookies come out soft and flavorful every time, making them a reliable treat for any occasion. They feel special enough to share but are also easy enough to make on a busy weekday.

How to Make Chai Sugar Cookies in Simple Steps

Making these chai cookies involves just a few easy stages. First, mix the wet ingredients until fluffy. Then, you’ll combine dry ingredients to create rich flavors. After chilling the dough, shape it into balls and roll them in a spiced sugar mixture. Finally, bake until golden brown and enjoy a delicious cookie!

Ingredients

1 cup Butter, softened
3/4 cup Brown Sugar
3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
2 large Eggs
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
2 1/2 cups Flour (for slightly thicker cookies, use 2 2/3 cups)
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
1/2 teaspoon Salt
2 teaspoons Chai Spice Blend

For the Chai Spice Blend:

1 Tablespoon Cinnamon
1 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom
1 teaspoon Ginger
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves
1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg
Pinch Black Pepper

For the Chai Sugar Mixture for rolling:

1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
1 Tablespoon Chai Spice Blend

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix for an additional minute until well combined.
In a separate bowl, prepare the chai spice blend by combining the cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, ground cloves, nutmeg, and a pinch of black pepper.
Gradually stir in the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, and 2 teaspoons of the chai spice blend. Mix just until everything is combined; avoid overmixing.
In a small bowl, mix the remaining chai spice blend (1 tablespoon) with 1/3 cup of granulated sugar for rolling.
Cover the cookie dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 25-30 minutes. This helps the cookies keep their shape.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll the chilled dough into small balls until they are round and smooth.
Drop each ball into the chai sugar mixture, coating them well. For an even layer, use a spoon to coat them a second time.
If you want flatter cookies, gently press down in the middle of each ball before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes until they are lightly golden around the edges.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Enjoy Your Chai Sugar Cookies

These Chai Sugar Cookies are delicious either warm or at room temperature. Serve them on their own for a sweet snack or pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy experience. They make a wonderful addition to lunches or can be brought to gatherings or celebrations!

Storing Your Chai Sugar Cookies for Freshness

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for around 5-7 days. If you’d like to save them for longer, you can freeze the unbaked cookie balls. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Helpful Tips for Making Perfect Chai Sugar Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. It should be easy to press with your finger, creating an indent.
Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they are done when the edges look set, and the centers are just slightly soft.
For a fun touch, add a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for an extra surprise.

Variations

Pumpkin Spice Twist: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree to the dough for a rich pumpkin flavor.
Nutty Addition: Include chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet, chocolatey flavor.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dough and chill it for up to 24 hours in the fridge. Just make sure to cover it well.

Can I freeze baked cookies?

Absolutely! Once the cookies are thoroughly cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

What if I don’t have cream of tartar?

If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. Just omit the baking soda since both ingredients help with leavening.

Conclusion

These Chai Sugar Cookies add a special touch to any day! With their cozy flavors and simple preparation, they are a delightful way to treat yourself and others. The easy steps help build your confidence in the kitchen, giving you a rewarding baking experience every time.

Baking these cookies is not just about the delicious results; it’s about creating moments of joy with every bite. Enjoy your time in the kitchen as you whip up this sweet and spiced treat, and feel free to get creative with your own variations next time!

Chai Sugar Cookies Recipe