Wendy’s Sugar Cookie Recipe

Who doesn’t love a good sugar cookie? I sure do—especially the one from Wendy’s. Last week, I stopped by Wendy’s and tried their sugar cookie for the first time. I didn’t expect much, but wow—it was even better than I thought! The outside had a light crisp, and the inside was soft and chewy. It was warm, fresh, and tasted just right.

Sugar cookies are always a hit, no matter the day. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with family or friends.

After tasting Wendy’s version, I decided to try making it at home. I followed a simple recipe, and the result was amazing—it tasted just like the one I had at Wendy’s! Plus, it was way cheaper.

If you want to enjoy these cookies with something tasty to drink, try it with Cane’s Sweet Iced Tea, a little Outback Honey Butter on the side, or even a glass of Cava Blueberry Lavender. Follow the steps below and enjoy these soft and yummy sugar cookies right in your own kitchen!

What is Wendy’s Sugar Cookie Recipe?

This Wendy’s sugar cookie recipe is a copycat version of the famous cookies served at Wendy’s restaurants. Wendy’s Sugar Cookie are known for their perfect texture – crispy edges with soft, chewy centers. The recipe uses simple ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, and eggs to create cookies that taste just like the ones from the restaurant. The secret is in the right mix of ingredients and the proper baking technique.

Helpful Ingredient Swaps

You can make some simple swaps in this recipe if needed. Instead of unsalted butter, you can use salted butter but reduce any added salt. If you don’t have white sugar, you can use brown sugar for a slightly different flavor and chewier texture.

For the flour, you can substitute up to half with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you’re out of eggs, you can use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute. Vanilla extract can be added for extra flavor, though it’s not in the original recipe. These swaps will give you slightly different results, but the cookies will still be delicious.

What Is in Wendy’s Sugar Cookie Recipe (Ingredients)

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the cookie dough, giving structure.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Adds a little lift for the perfect texture.
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings rich, buttery flavor and smoothness.
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar: Sweetens the cookies and creates crispy edges.
• 1 large egg: Binds the dough and adds moisture.
• Extra white sugar (for coating): Gives the cookies a sparkly, crunchy exterior.

Kitchen Appliances

• Mixing bowl: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Spatula: To mix the dough smoothly.
• Baking sheet: A standard-sized sheet works great for baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Measuring spoons: For precise amounts of baking soda and baking powder.
• Measuring cups: To measure flour and sugar accurately.

How To Make Wendy’s Sugar Cookie Recipe

Step 1 | Prepare the dry ingredients
Add all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder to a bowl. Mix the dry ingredients well and set aside the flour mixture.

Step 2 | Cream the butter
Place softened unsalted butter into a separate bowl. Cream the butter until smooth using a mixer or wooden spoon.

Step 3 | Add sugar
Gradually add sugar to the creamed butter, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Step 4 | Add egg
Add one large egg to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix the egg into the mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 5 | Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined and a dough forms. Don’t overmix.

Step 6 | Chill the dough
Chill the cookie dough for 1 hour. This step is important for the right texture.

Step 7 | Shape the cookies
Scoop out portions of the chilled dough and roll them into balls. Roll each dough ball in white sugar to coat completely.

Step 8 | Bake
Place the coated cookie dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375°F for 8–11 minutes until the edges are golden.

Step 9 | Cool
Allow the baked cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

Step 10 | Serve
Enjoy your cookies warm with a glass of milk, or let them cool completely before decorating with frosting or sprinkles.

Tips for Soft and Chewy Sugar Cookies

1. Use room temperature butter and egg for better mixing.
2. Don’t overmix the dough to keep cookies tender.
3. Chill the dough well before baking to prevent spreading.
4. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour to avoid dry cookies.
5. Bake just until edges turn golden; overbaking makes cookies hard.
6. Roll dough balls generously in sugar for a crunchy coating.
7. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving.

Recipe Variations and Additions

Add vanilla extract for extra flavor – just one teaspoon will do. For chocolate lovers, add chocolate chips or mini chocolate chunks to the dough. Lemon zest gives the cookies a fresh, citrusy taste. You can also add almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.

For holiday versions, add food coloring to make colored cookies or use colored sugar for rolling. Cinnamon sugar coating instead of plain sugar creates a snickerdoodle-style cookie. You can also add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. Dried fruit like cranberries or raisins also work well in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious sugar cookies are perfect for many occasions. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for the classic combination. They’re great with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. Pack them in lunch boxes for a sweet surprise. These cookies are perfect for bake sales, potluck dinners, or office treats.

You can also use these cookies as a base for ice cream sandwiches. Just let them cool completely, then add your favorite ice cream between two cookies.

For special occasions, you can decorate them with royal icing or simple glaze. They also make great gifts when packed in pretty boxes or bags.

How Long Do Sugar Cookies Last?

When stored properly, these sugar cookies will stay fresh for about one week at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container or sealed plastic bag to maintain their softness. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap or store them in freezer bags.

Wendy’s Sugar Cookie Recipe FAQs

1. What if my cookies spread too much during baking?

If your cookies spread too much, there are several possible causes. Your butter might be too warm, your dough might not be chilled enough, or you might have too much butter in the recipe. Make sure to chill the dough for at least one hour and use room temperature (not melted) butter.

2. Why are my sugar cookies flat?

Flat cookies usually mean the dough was too warm, or you didn’t chill it enough. Make sure to chill the dough and measure ingredients carefully.

3. What is the difference between baking soda and baking powder in this recipe?

Baking soda helps cookies spread and brown, while baking powder adds lift and lightness. Both together balance texture.

4. What if my cookies turn out dry?

Make sure you’re not using too much flour. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour properly.

5. How do I get evenly sized cookies?

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough. This also helps them bake evenly.

Final Words

This Wendy’s sugar cookie recipe brings the beloved restaurant taste right to your kitchen. The simple ingredients and easy steps make it perfect for any home baker.

The basic recipe is perfect as is, but you can also add your own touches to make them unique. I hope you try this recipe and share your cooking experience with us. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more amazing recipes like this one!