This Easy 3-ingredient sugar cookie recipe is the easiest cookie you can make with basic ingredients. No mixer tricks or special steps. Just a mixing bowl, a large bowl, and simple ingredients

In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes. Mix in almond extract, if using.

Add flour and mix on low speed just until the dough comes together. Do not knead. If the dough feels very soft or sticky, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before baking

Scoop dough into 11 portions using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop. Gently flatten each mound slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.

Place cookies about 2½ inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 12–14 minutes, until the edges are set and the tops look matte but not browned.

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.