These soft, lightly sweet sugar cookies are perfect for a sodium‑conscious dessert. Made with unsalted butter and reduced sodium baking powder, they’re a heart‑healthy, no added salt treat that still tastes classic and comforting.

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Table of Contents

Ingredients Needed

¾ cup unsalted butter: softened to room temperature.
¾ cup sugar: granulated.
2 eggs: large, room temperature.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: for classic flavor.
½ teaspoon almond extract: adds subtle sweetness.
2 cups all‑purpose flour: spooned and leveled.
1 teaspoon reduced sodium baking powder: lowers overall sodium content.

How To Make Low Sodium Sugar Cookies

Cream Butter & Sugar:
Add the softened unsalted butter and sugar to a large mixing bowl or stand mixer. Mix on medium‑high speed for about 3 minutes until light and creamy.

Add Eggs & Extracts:
Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix for another 3 minutes until fully combined and smooth.

Add Baking Powder:
Mix in the reduced sodium baking powder until evenly incorporated.

Add Flour:
Add the flour gradually, mixing between additions. Mix on medium speed until a soft dough forms and all flour is incorporated.

Shape Cookies:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop about ¼ cup of dough per cookie. Flatten gently into rounds and place on the baking sheet.

Bake & Cool:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool completely before handling.

Recipe Tips

Always use unsalted butter to avoid hidden sodium.
Reduced sodium baking powder keeps these cookies heart‑healthy.
Do not overbake—soft centers are best for texture.
Chill dough briefly if it feels too soft to shape.

How to Store & Reheat

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Fridge: Keeps fresh for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per cookie)

Calories: 135
Sodium: 20–35 mg
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 6 g
Carbs: 18 g
Fibre: 0.5 g
Sugar: 8 g

FAQs

Are sugar cookies usually high in sodium?
Yes. Many recipes use salted butter and regular baking powder. This version uses smart swaps to stay low sodium.

Can I decorate these cookies?
Yes. Use a low sodium or homemade icing for best results.

Is almond extract necessary?
No. You can omit it or replace with extra vanilla if preferred.

Are these cookies kidney‑friendly?
Yes. When made with unsalted butter and reduced sodium baking powder, they fit many kidney‑friendly diets.

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