Copycat Panera Bread Sugar Cookies: The Ultimate Guide

The Irresistible Allure of Panera’s Sugar Cookies

There’s something special about biting into a freshly baked sugar cookie, the sweetness giving way to a tender crumb that simply melts in your mouth. For fans of Panera Bread, their signature sugar cookies are the epitome of this experience.

This copycat recipe is designed to bring that beloved taste home, with a focus on replicating the signature texture and flavor that makes Panera’s cookies so irresistible.

What Sets These Cookies Apart

• Tender crumb: Achieved through a combination of the right sugar ratio and a precise baking temperature (190°C / 374°F).
• Signature flavor: A blend of vanilla and a hint of almond extract gives these cookies a distinct taste that’s unmistakably Panera.

With this recipe, you’ll be able to create cookies that are almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing friends and family with your baking skills.

Panera Bread Sugar Cookie Recipe

This recipe is a replica of the classic Panera Bread Sugar Cookies. To make these sweet treats, gather the following ingredients: 240 g / 1 cup granulated sugar, 120 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, 300 g / 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

The estimated baking time for these cookies is 10-12 minutes at 180°C / 350°F. Ensure the cookies are lightly golden brown around the edges and set in the center.

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Bake time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 25-27 minutes

These Panera Bread Sugar Cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a simple ingredient list and quick baking time, you can enjoy these delicious cookies in no time. Follow the recipe carefully to achieve the signature Panera Bread taste and texture.

Panera Bread Sugar Cookie Ingredients

Ready to bake those iconic Panera Bread Sugar Cookies? Here’s everything you’ll need to get started. We’ve included some tips on substitutions for those hard-to-find ingredients.

• 240 g / 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 150 g / ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 300 g / 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Optional additions for extra flavor:

• ¼ teaspoon almond extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Tip: If you can’t find almond extract, a pinch of almond flavoring (available in most grocery stores) works well as a substitute.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Panera Bread Sugar Cookies

Follow these clear and detailed instructions to guide you through the entire baking process.

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and position the racks in the upper and lower thirds of the oven.
2. Prepare the baking sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
3. Whisk together dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 240 g (1 cup) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
4. Whisk together wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 120 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened, and 240 g (1 cup) granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs and vanilla extract: Beat in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Mix in dry ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the dough to firm up.
8. Scoop the dough: Scoop the dough into balls, about 15 g (1 tablespoon) each, and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 5 cm (2 inches) of space between each cookie.
9. Bake the cookies: Bake for 12-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown, rotating the baking sheets halfway through the baking time.
10. Cool the cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate the cookies (optional): If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with your favorite frosting and sprinkles.

Pro Tips for Perfect Panera-Style Cookies

To achieve cookies that rival those from Panera Bread, consider the following insider tips and tricks. Consider the quality and freshness of ingredients, particularly the butter and vanilla extract, as they significantly impact the flavor and texture of the cookies.

Essential Tips

• Use a combination of white and brown sugar (240 g / 1 cup white, 120 g / 1/2 cup brown) for a richer flavor profile.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix wet and dry ingredients separately and gently fold them together.
• Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 180°C / 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
• Remove the cookies from the oven when they are slightly underbaked, as they will continue to cook a bit after being taken out.

Avoid common pitfalls such as overbaking, which can cause the cookies to dry out. Also, be mindful of the baking sheet – don’t overcrowd it, as this can affect the cookies’ shape and baking time. By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfect Panera-style sugar cookies that are sure to impress.

Making it Your Own: Ingredient Substitutions

Love the taste of Panera Bread’s sugar cookies but have dietary restrictions or preferences? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your needs.

Here are some ingredient substitutions to consider:

• Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute 240 g / 1 cup of vegan butter. This will likely result in a slightly softer cookie.
• Flour: To make the cookies gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different.
• Eggs: For vegan cookies, replace the eggs with 3 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with 9 tablespoons of water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to the dough.

Optional Ingredients:

• Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies.
• Sprinkles: Add a festive touch by sprinkling colorful sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking.

Beyond the Classic: Flavor Variations

Take your sugar cookies to the next level with these creative flavor combinations, add-ins, and decorations.

• Lemon Rosemary Sugar Cookies

  Infuse your cookies with the brightness of lemon zest and the earthiness of rosemary. Add 1 tsp dried rosemary and 1 tsp lemon zest to the dough. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12-14 minutes.

• Espresso Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies

  Give your cookies a mocha twist with the addition of espresso powder and dark chocolate chips. Add 1 tsp espresso powder and 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips to the dough. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes.

• Orange Creamsicle Sugar Cookies

  Transport yourself to a sunny day with the citrusy flavor of orange zest and the creaminess of vanilla. Add 1 tsp orange zest and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the dough. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 12-14 minutes.

Feel free to mix and match these flavor combinations to create your own unique sugar cookie creations!

Storing Your Sugar Cookie Delights

To maintain the freshness and texture of your Panera Bread Sugar Cookies, proper storage is essential. Cookies can be stored at room temperature (20°C / 68°F) for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container, such as a glass jar or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid, to keep them fresh.

For longer storage, consider freezing your cookies. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper (240 g / 1 cup of cookies per layer). Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 2 months at -18°C / 0°F. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the desired number of cookies at room temperature or reheat them in the oven at 150°C / 300°F for a few minutes.

• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Freeze cookies for longer storage (up to 2 months).
• Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature or reheat in the oven.

Common Baking Challenges and Solutions

Even the most seasoned bakers encounter hiccups now and then. Let’s tackle some common issues you might face when baking Panera Bread Sugar Cookies and how to fix them:

1. Cookies Spreading Too Much: This often happens when the dough is too warm or the baking temperature is too high. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and reduce the oven temperature by 25°C (50°F).
2. Cookies Are Too Soft: Underbaking is the culprit here. Bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
3. Cookies Are Too Hard: Overbaking is the usual suspect. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are golden brown.

Remember, every oven is different, so it’s always a good idea to start checking your cookies a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Adjust accordingly to achieve that perfect Panera Bread Sugar Cookie texture!

Nutritional Information

The estimated nutritional content per serving of these Panera Bread-inspired Sugar Cookies is:

• Calories: 420 per cookie (serves 12)
• Macros: 27g fat (36% of daily value), 34g carbohydrates (11% of daily value), 4g protein (8% of daily value)
• Other nutrients: 1.5g fiber, 10mg cholesterol, 200mg sodium

These sugar cookies are free from common allergens like gluten, nuts, and soy. However, they are not suitable for a vegan diet due to the presence of eggs and dairy products.

Dietary tags: Gluten-free (GF), Dairy-containing (not DF or Vegan)

Key Takeaways for Baking Success

These Panera Bread-inspired sugar cookies are a delightful treat, and with a few key tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

1. Chill the Dough: This is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too thin while baking. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, or even overnight for optimal results.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They’re done when the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are just set. Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly cookies.
3. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the flavor and texture of your cookies. Opt for unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and fresh baking powder for the best results.
4. Roll Out Consistently: For evenly baked cookies, roll out the dough to a uniform thickness. Aim for about 5mm (¼ inch) thick.
5. Let Cookies Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking delicious, melt-in-your-mouth Panera Bread-style sugar cookies.

From the Baker’s Kitchen

As a long-time fan of Panera Bread’s iconic sugar cookies, I was thrilled to crack the code on their secret recipe. After countless attempts and tweaks, I’m excited to share my take on these beloved treats.

A Baker’s Note

One of the key differences between my recipe and others I’ve tried is the use of a combination of white and brown sugar. This adds a depth of flavor and a hint of caramel undertones that’s unmistakably Panera.

My Favorite Twist

For an extra-special touch, I like to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to the tops of the cookies before baking. This balances out the sweetness and adds a delightful textural element.

Perfecting the Recipe

After experimenting with different ratios of sugar to butter, I landed on a combination that yields a cookie that’s both tender and chewy. I also found that using a higher ratio of egg to sugar helps to create a more even bake.

With these tweaks, my Panera Bread Sugar Cookie Recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Give it a try and let me know what you think!

Enjoy Your Homemade Panera-Style Cookies!

With this Panera Bread Sugar Cookie Recipe, baking success is just a few steps away. The combination of 240 g / 1 cup granulated sugar, 120 g / 1/2 cup unsalted butter, and a touch of vanilla extract creates a truly irresistible treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just a cozy afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

As you take your first bite, the sweetness and softness will transport you to the warmth of a bakery. To enhance the experience, consider baking the cookies at 180°C / 350°F for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden. This precise temperature control will help you achieve the perfect texture.

Now, it’s time to share your baking success with others. Try customizing the recipe with different mix-ins, such as 60 g / 1/2 cup chopped nuts or 120 g / 1 cup dried cranberries, to create unique flavor combinations. We’d love to hear about your experiences and the joy that these cookies bring to your life. Share your story, and let’s celebrate the simple pleasures of baking and sharing delicious treats together.