The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

Ah, the sweet memory of baking cut-out sugar cookies with family during the holidays—nothing quite compares, right? Each shape tells a story; each colorful frosting swathe becomes an act of creativity. That’s the magic of sugar cookies! This recipe has become my go-to for cut-outs: it’s simple, fun, and so incredibly satisfying. Whenever I roll out that dough and cut it into festive shapes, it’s like unleashing a wave of nostalgia. Whether they’re for a holiday, a birthday, or just because, these cookies are bound to bring joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let’s get right into it! What makes this sugar cookie recipe truly delightful goes beyond the beautiful shapes—it’s the flavor and texture. Imagine a cookie that’s crisp on the edges but soft and chewy in the middle. This recipe gives you just that and carries a subtle hint of vanilla and almond that elevates the flavor profile to something you won’t forget. You’ll find that it balances sweetness without being overwhelming, making it perfect for frosting or enjoying plain.

Plus, the dough is incredibly versatile! You can roll it out, shape it, and not worry about them spreading too much—every cookie retains its shape beautifully! It’s an invitation for you to get creative: whether you’re cutting out stars, trees, hearts, or whatever comes to mind—the sky’s the limit. And oh, let’s not forget the frosting! That silky, sugary blanket of happiness you get to slather on top. What more can you ask for?

Key Ingredients Overview

Now, let’s gather the stars of the show for this sugar cookie celebration:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 3/4 cups): The backbone of your cookies. Flour gives structure while allowing that delicate chewiness. Don’t be tempted to swap it out—this recipe flourishes with classic all-purpose.

• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon): This little leavener works wonders—helping your dough rise and giving those cookies the perfect lift and fluffiness.

• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A pinch may seem small, but salt balances the sweetness, pulling all the flavors together beautifully.

• Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Butter is crucial—its richness helps create that melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Softened means easier to cream with sugar, so let it sit out for a bit before you start.

• Granulated Sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetness comes from the sugar, and this recipe has just the right amount to dance on your taste buds without overwhelming them.

• Egg (1 large): The egg binds everything together, giving your cookies that light, airy texture.

• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): The quintessential flavor, vanilla adds warmth and depth that make these cookies truly irresistible.

• Almond Extract (1/2 teaspoon): A special touch that introduces an unexpected delightful note—skip it if nuts aren’t your thing, but I highly recommend trying it!

• Powdered Sugar (for frosting): This is essential for smooth, spreadable frosting that turns your cookies into pieces of art.

• Milk (for frosting): Just a splash to achieve that perfect consistency; you can adjust according to your preference.

• Food Coloring (optional): If you’re feeling festive (or creative), add a pop of color to your frosting!

The Cooking Process Explained

Ready to dive in? Let’s make some magic happen!

1. Preheat Your Oven: Fire it up to 350°F (175°C). You want it nice and cozy for those cookies.

2. Whisk It Up: Take a bowl and whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that everything combines evenly later on.

3. Creme de la Creme: In another bowl, cream together that softened butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—think clouds in a bowl. This is when the magic begins!

4. Add the Goodies: Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts. Just imagine the aromas wafting around your kitchen.

5. Dry Meets Wet: Gradually blend your dry mixture into the wet one. Mix until everything is combined. You should have a lovely dough.

6. Roll It Out: Dust your surface lightly with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutter shapes to cut out those adorable cookies.

7. Bake Away: Place cutouts on prepared baking sheets and slide them into the oven. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until they’re just lightly golden.

8. Cooling Time: Let those beauties cool completely before frosting. Otherwise, your frosting will melt away into oblivion! Speaking of which…

9. Frosting Time: Mix powdered sugar with just enough milk until it’s smooth and achieves your desired consistency. Add food coloring if your inner artist is calling to you! Frost those cookies and let them harden before indulging.

Best Way to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving these sweet delights, the options are endless! Picture this: a festive cookie platter, glistening with colorful frosting, sitting on the table, just waiting for guests to dive in. You can serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or a glass of cold milk for that classic pairing.

If you’re feeling extra generous, you can gift a box of these beauties—trust me, they’ll be the highlight at any gathering or office party. And if you want to take it up a notch, whip up a simple glaze or sprinkle with some sprinkles for a delightful crunch!

How to Store and Freeze

Now, let’s talk about the sensible side of things—how to keep these cookies fresh for longer! Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. You can also freeze them if you’re batch-prepping—they hold up exceptionally well!

To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and seal tightly. They can last up to three months! When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw them at room temperature. Easy-peasy!

Extra Tips and Advice

• Chill the Dough: If you find your dough is too soft to roll out easily, don’t hesitate to pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. It makes all the difference!

• Experiment with Sugars: For a more caramel-like flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. It’ll add a slightly chewy texture.

• Make it Gluten-Free: If you or someone you know follows a gluten-free diet, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and watch them enjoy just as much!

• Play with Flavors: Try swapping the almond extract with lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are deliciously endless!

Ingredients List

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• Powdered sugar (for frosting)
• Milk (for frosting)
• Food coloring (optional)

Directions to Follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract.
5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thick and cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cutouts on baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cookies cool completely before frosting. For the frosting, mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk until smooth and desired consistency is reached. Add food coloring if desired. Frost the cooled cookies and allow to harden before serving.

Common Questions

• What’s the prep time? Expect about 30 minutes of prep time plus baking and cooling.
• Can I use margarine instead of butter? While it could work, butter is ideal for flavor and texture.
• How thick should I roll the dough? Aim for 1/4 inch thick to ensure they bake evenly.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can refrigerate it overnight or freeze it for a couple of months.
• What if the cookies spread too much in the oven? If they spread too much, it’s likely because the butter was too soft—chill the dough for the best results next time.

Baking sugar cookies is more than just a task; it’s an experience to cherish, a moment of joy, and a chance to connect with those around you. With this recipe, you’re opening the door to creative flare and family traditions. I encourage you to try it, sprinkle in your unique touch, and share your delicious adventures in the comments below. Happy baking!

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The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Total Time 40 hrs

Cooking Temp: 350  F Servings: 24 Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 120

Best Season: All year round

Description

These delightful sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion, with a crispy edge and soft chewy center, accented by vanilla and almond flavors.

Key Ingredients for Sugar Cookies

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ³⁄₄ cups all-purpose flour (The backbone of your cookies.)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (Helps dough rise and gives fluffiness.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (Creates melt-in-your-mouth texture.)
• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups granulated sugar (Provides sweetness.)
• 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Adds warmth and flavor.)
• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon almond extract (Optional but recommended for additional flavor.)

For Frosting

• Powdered sugar for frosting (Essential for smooth frosting.)
• Milk for frosting (Adjust for desired consistency.)
• Food coloring optional (For festive decoration.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Baking Cookies

1. Preheat the Oven

   Fire it up to 350°F (175°C).
   Mark as complete

2. Whisk Dry Ingredients

   In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
   Ensures even mixing.
   Mark as complete

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

   In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   This is where the magic begins!
   Mark as complete

4. Add Egg and Extracts

   Beat in the egg, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts.
   Enjoy the aromas!
   Mark as complete

5. Combine Mixtures

   Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until well combined.
   Mark as complete

6. Roll Out the Dough

   Roll out on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thick and cut into shapes.
   Mark as complete

7. Bake the Cookies

   Place cutouts on baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
   Mark as complete

8. Cool and Frost

   Let cookies cool completely before frosting.
   Mix powdered sugar with milk for frosting.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 24

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 120kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 8g13%

Saturated Fat 5g25%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 30mg10%

Sodium 60mg3%

Potassium 40mg2%

Total Carbohydrate 14g5%

Dietary Fiber 0g

Sugars 7g

Protein 1g2%

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Vitamin A 2 IU

Vitamin C 0 mg

Calcium 0 mg

Iron 0 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 0 IU

Vitamin K 0 mcg

Thiamin 0 mg

Riboflavin 0 mg

Niacin 0 mg

Vitamin B6 0 mg

Folate 0 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0 mg

Phosphorus 0 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 0 mg

Zinc 0 mg

Selenium 0 mcg

Copper 0 mg

Manganese 0 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: sugar cookies, cut-out cookies, holiday baking, festive treats