Name: Guilt-Free Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies You'll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Greek Yogurt (full-fat for best texture); 1/2 cup Sugar (reduce for a lighter touch); 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (acts as a leavening agent); 1 large Egg (or use a flax egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (enhances flavor); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (balances sweetness)

As the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile, knowing I’m about to share a little secret: Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies. These delightful little treats are my go-to for when I want to indulge without the guilt. With the tangy goodness of Greek yogurt nested within a soft, comforting cookie, they strike that perfect balance between health and satisfaction. Not only are they lower in sugar, but they also deliver a tender texture that melts in your mouth, making them a fantastic guilt-free option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just need a sweet distraction from the daily grind, these cookies are sure to impress. Curious about how to whip up your own batch of these soft, tangy delights? Let’s get baking!

Why Use Greek Yogurt in Cookies?

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With Greek yogurt, you can enjoy a classic cookie without the guilt.
Health Benefits: Lower fat and higher protein content make these a smarter choice!
Tangy Twist: The yogurt adds a delightful tanginess that elevates the traditional sugar cookie flavor.
Versatile: Easily switch things up by adding your favorite mix-ins or spices for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they’ll delight friends and family alike.
Pair these with a cup of tea or for a delectable midnight snack. For more fantastic cookie ideas, check out my Pistachio Cream Cookies and Sugar Cookie Cheesecake.

Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter

Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and tanginess; using full-fat will enhance texture.
Sugar – This sweetens the cookies and enhances their flavor; feel free to reduce for a lighter touch.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light and fluffy cookie.
Egg – Binds the ingredients, adding richness; can swap with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, giving depth to your cookies.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enriches flavor, making each bite satisfying.

Chill and bake to create these delightful Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies. Make sure that your Greek yogurt, egg, and vanilla extract are at room temperature, as this will ensure a smoother mixing process. Pre-measure and set everything out on your counter to make the next steps easier.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or whisk, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. You’re looking for a light yellow color and a fluffy texture to set the base for your delicious cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agent and ensuring your Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies rise beautifully. Once combined, create a small well in the center of the dry ingredients to prepare for the next step.

Step 4: Mix Together
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This will help maintain the soft, delicate texture of your cookies.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and improves the texture of the Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies. While waiting, preheat your oven to prepare for the next step.

Step 6: Preheat Oven
Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Allow the oven to fully preheat, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. This step is essential for ensuring that your cookies bake evenly, giving them that soft, chewy center and slightly crisp edges.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, scoop out portions of the dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop. Place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading as they bake. Aim for about 2 inches between them for best results.

Step 8: Bake
Bake the Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges while the centers remain soft. Don’t worry if they seem a little underbaked—that’s what gives them their delightful texture!

Step 9: Cool
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set up a bit before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cooling process is crucial for maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth softness you’re aiming for!

How to Store and Freeze Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days, but be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To warm up frozen Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for 10-15 seconds until slightly warmed.

What to Serve with Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies

Elevate your cookie experience and create a delightful spread that leaves everyone wanting more.

Creamy Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip complements the cookies beautifully, mirroring the Greek yogurt within for a cohesive taste.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, enhancing the soft sweetness of the cookies.
Classic Milk: A glass of cold milk—either dairy or plant-based—provides a nostalgic pairing that softens each bite.
Zesty Lemon Icing: Top these cookies with a light lemon icing to amplify their tangy flavor, creating a perfect balance.
Herbal Tea: A fragrant cup of chamomile or mint tea offers warmth and relaxation, making for a soothing treat time.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over these cookies adds a rich, indulgent touch, elevating their appeal.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top for a tropical twist that adds both flavor and texture.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds a natural sweetness, enhancing the cookies without overpowering them.
Spiced Coffee: Pair these cookies with a cup of spiced coffee for an invigorating flavor experience that stimulates the senses.

Make Ahead Options

These Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Alternatively, if you’re planning even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; wrap it in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight and then scoop and bake as directed. This ensures your cookies remain just as delicious and soft when baked fresh! Enjoy the time-saving benefits while indulging in these tangy treats!

Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to customize these cookies to suit your taste; the joy of baking lies in experimenting with flavors and textures!

Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh and lively twist that brightens each bite.
Chocolate Chips: Mix in dark or white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the tangy yogurt base. They add richness and allure!
Nutty Delights: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an earthy crunch that complements the soft texture.
Spiced Up: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy notes that elevate these cookies to the next holiday level.
Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, so everyone can savor these goodies.
Vegan Option: Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg and a dairy-free yogurt alternative to make these cookies vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor!
Caramel Swirl: Fold in caramel bits or a swirl of caramel sauce for a luscious, sweet surprise that makes every bite delightful.

Want more cookie inspiration? Explore my flavorful Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar for a sensational brunch treat!

Tips for the Best Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies

Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth, well-mixed batter.

Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It enhances flavor and texture, making your cookies even better.

Exact Measurements: Accurate measurements are key. Use a kitchen scale if possible, especially for flour.

Watch Your Bake Time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for a soft, slightly underbaked center for optimal texture.

Add Flavor Twists: Consider incorporating citrus zest or spices for an exciting twist on these Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies.

Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of Greek yogurt should I use?
Absolutely! For the best texture, I recommend using full-fat Greek yogurt. It provides a creamier consistency that enhances the cookie’s softness. However, if you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, but it might slightly alter the texture.

How should I store Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you find they’re staying around for longer, refrigerating them can extend their shelf life to about 10 days. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before diving in!

Can I freeze Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and label them. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds!

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies spread too much, it could be due to one of a few reasons. Ensure that your butter (if using in other cookie variations) and eggs are at room temperature. Additionally, if your dough isn’t chilled properly, it can lead to excessive spreading. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes next time for better structure.

Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies?
While these cookies contain common allergens like gluten (in the flour) and eggs, they can be adapted! For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. To make them vegan, swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes before using). Always check the ingredient labels to ensure they’re allergy-friendly for your guests.

How can I add extra flavor to my Greek Yogurt Sugar Cookies?
Certainly! You can enhance the flavor by mixing in citrus zest (like lemon or orange), which adds a refreshing twist. For a seasonal touch, consider adding warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Chocolate chips and nuts also make delightful mix-ins that can turn these cookies into a customized treat!