Looking for a sugar cookie that’s crisp on the edges, soft in the middle, and rich in buttery flavor? Gordon Ramsay’s sugar cookie recipe brings together precision and simplicity, offering a bakery-quality treat using basic ingredients. These cookies are ideal for holidays, everyday snacks, or decorating with the kids. Follow this full guide to bake a flawless batch every time.
What is Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie?
Gordon Ramsay’s sugar cookie is a classic vanilla-infused cookie made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. What sets his version apart is the focus on technique—chilling the dough, using quality ingredients, and achieving the perfect texture balance between soft and crisp. These cookies are easy to roll, shape, or cut and bake beautifully without spreading too much.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes
Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- Ideal base for decorating
These cookies hold their shape perfectly, making them great for frosting or icing. - Balanced sweetness
Not overly sugary—just the right amount to satisfy without being cloying. - Crisp edges with soft centers
A texture that delivers the best of both cookie worlds. - Simple, pantry-staple ingredients
No special shopping needed—just basic baking supplies. - Freezer-friendly dough
Make ahead and bake fresh whenever needed. - Fun for all ages
Perfect for baking with kids or personalizing with decorations.
Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract for extra flavor
Instructions to Prepare Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- Step 1: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
- Step 2: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, until fully combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture.
- Step 4: Mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix—stop once the dough comes together smoothly.
- Step 5: Divide the dough in half, flatten it into discs, wrap it in plastic, and chill it for 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
- Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7: Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
- Step 8: Transfer cookies to baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Step 9: Let cookies cool on the tray for 2–3 minutes before moving to a wire rack.

What Goes Well With Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- A cup of black coffee or espresso – Balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cold milk – A timeless pairing that brings out the buttery flavor.
- Citrus zest glaze – Lemon or orange glaze adds brightness to each bite.
- Chocolate drizzle – Melted dark or white chocolate for a quick decoration.
- Vanilla or cream cheese frosting – Ideal for decorating or layering.
Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookies
- Use softened butter, not melted – Ensures the dough creams properly for a smooth texture.
- Don’t skip the chilling step – Helps cookies hold their shape and improves flavor.
- Roll evenly for consistent baking – Uneven thickness causes some cookies to overbake.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats – Prevents sticking and helps with even browning.
- Watch closely while baking – They go from perfect to overdone very quickly.
- Let cookies cool completely before decorating – Prevents icing from melting or running.
- Store undecorated cookies separately – Frosted ones can soften if stored together.
Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- Add citrus zest – Lemon or orange zest adds a fresh note to the dough.
- Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg – Gives a warm twist perfect for fall.
- Make sandwich cookies – Fill with buttercream or jam for a sweet bite.
- Use brown sugar instead of white – Adds a hint of molasses for depth.
- Add mini chocolate chips – For a chocolate-sugar cookie hybrid.
- Sprinkle with colored sugar before baking – Adds texture and sparkle without icing.
Storage Guidelines for Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature – They stay fresh for up to 5–6 days.
- Keep frosted cookies in a single layer – Stacking can ruin decoration.
- Store unfrosted cookies separately – Helps maintain crispness.
- Avoid refrigerating – It can dry out the cookies quickly.
- Freeze cookie dough discs – Keeps for up to 3 months when well-wrapped.
Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
- Warm in the oven briefly – 300°F (150°C) for 3–4 minutes refreshes texture.
- Microwave with caution – 5–7 seconds max to avoid melting or softening too much.
- From frozen – Thaw at room temperature before serving or reheating lightly in oven.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 60mg
FAQs
How do you keep sugar cookies from spreading in the oven?
To prevent sugar cookies from spreading, chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking. Also, make sure the butter is softened—not melted—and avoid overmixing the dough.
Can I freeze Gordon Ramsay sugar cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze Gordon Ramsay sugar cookie dough. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling and baking.
What is the best thickness for sugar cookies?
The ideal thickness for sugar cookies is about ¼ inch. This allows them to bake evenly, hold their shape, and have a soft center with crisp edges.
Do I need to use parchment paper for sugar cookies?
Using parchment paper is recommended for baking sugar cookies. It prevents sticking, promotes even baking, and helps maintain the cookie’s shape.
Final Words
Gordon Ramsay’s sugar cookie recipe delivers everything you want in a classic treat: simplicity, taste, and the perfect texture. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just to fill the cookie jar, these cookies always hit the mark. Follow the tips, try the variations, and enjoy a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.
PrintGordon Ramsay Sugar Cookie
Gordon Ramsay’s sugar cookie is a classic vanilla-infused cookie made with butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. What sets his version apart is the focus on technique—chilling the dough, using quality ingredients, and achieving the perfect texture balance between soft and crisp. These cookies are easy to roll, shape, or cut and bake beautifully without spreading too much.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
-
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
-
1 large egg
-
2½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ teaspoon baking powder
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
Optional: ½ teaspoon almond extract for extra flavor
Instructions
-
Step 1: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.
-
Step 2: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, until fully combined.
-
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture.
-
Step 4: Mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix—stop once the dough comes together smoothly.
-
Step 5: Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
-
Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
Step 7: Roll dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
-
Step 8: Transfer cookies to baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
-
Step 9: Let cookies cool on the tray for 2–3 minutes before moving to a wire rack.