Step 1: Heat Treat the Flour: Spread the flour evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 5-7 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the flour reaches 165F (74C). Let it cool completely before using. This eliminates any harmful bacteria, ensuring safety.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. A smooth, well-combined mixture is key to a good texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the cooled, heat-treated flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough dough.
Step 5: Add Mix-Ins (Optional): Gently fold in any desired mix-ins, such as sprinkles or chocolate chips. Distribute the mix-ins evenly throughout the dough.
Step 6: Chill (Optional): For a firmer dough, chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dough to firm up.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy: Serve the edible sugar cookie dough chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy by the spoonful, or use in other desserts as desired.
Optional Tips: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. For a richer flavor, use browned butter instead of softened butter.