Soft Chewy Jello Sugar Cookies (Printable)

Soft, chewy sugar cookies with fruity Jello powder creating colorful treats perfect for any celebration.

# What you need:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
03 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

05 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
06 - 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
07 - 1 large egg
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ For Flavor & Color

09 - 2 packages (3 oz each) Jello gelatin powder, any flavors
10 - Extra granulated sugar for rolling

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
03 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
04 - Add egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
06 - Divide dough evenly into two bowls. Add one flavor of Jello powder to each bowl and knead until color and flavor are well incorporated.
07 - Scoop tablespoon portions of dough, roll into balls, then gently roll in extra granulated sugar.
08 - Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked for chewiness.
10 - Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The texture is impossibly chewy and soft, staying fresh for days without getting hard or stale
  • Endless color combinations make these perfect for holidays, parties, or just brightening up a Tuesday
02 -
  • Underbaking slightly is the secret to that soft, chewy center; they continue cooking on the hot baking sheet after you remove them
  • Jello powder varies in intensity by brand; start with less if youre worried about artificial flavor overpowering the cookie
03 -
  • Real vanilla extract makes a noticeable difference compared to imitation; its worth the extra cost
  • For the chewiest cookies, remove them from the oven when the centers still look slightly raw