Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe

Cut-out sugar cookies recipe is a timeless classic in the world of baking. Loved for their buttery flavor, crisp edges, and soft center, these cookies are perfect for decorating and sharing. Whether you’re preparing a festive batch for the holidays or a fun afternoon activity with kids, cut-out sugar cookies are a go-to choice for creating edible art that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

A Brief History of Sugar Cookies Recipe:

The origins of sugar cookies trace back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania, USA, where German settlers crafted a simple yet delightful recipe called the Nazareth Cookie. This predecessor of modern sugar cookies was named after the town of Nazareth and became a cherished part of American baking traditions. Over the years, the recipe evolved, and today, cut-out sugar cookies are a worldwide favorite for celebrations, from Christmas to birthdays.

Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

Pinklady

The origins of sugar cookies trace back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania, USA, where German settlers crafted a simple yet delightful recipe called the Nazareth Cookie.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 16

Cook Time 10

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 24 Cookies

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowls
Rolling Pin
Cookie cutters
Baking sheet
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
Cooling rack
Hand or stand mixer

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

2 3/4 cups (344g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

For Decoration (Optional):

Royal icing or buttercream frosting
Food coloring
Sprinkles

Instructions

Prepare the Dough
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a disk.
Wrap the disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step ensures the dough is firm enough to roll out and prevents the cookies from spreading during baking.
Roll and Cut
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate (Optional)
Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with royal icing, buttercream frosting, or sprinkles. Get creative with colors and designs to match your theme.

Video

Keyword Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe

Similar Recipes:

Chocolate Sugar Cookies: A cocoa twist on the classic sugar cookie, perfect for chocolate lovers.

Gingerbread Cut-Out Cookies: Spiced and fragrant, these cookies are a holiday staple.

Shortbread Cookies: Rich and buttery, these cookies melt in your mouth.

Snickerdoodles: Soft and chewy cookies coated in cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe:

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before rolling out.

2. Why do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading during baking, helping them maintain their shape.

3. Can I substitute margarine for butter?

While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Butter provides the best results.

4. How do I prevent the dough from sticking while rolling?

Lightly flour your work surface, rolling pin, and cookie cutters. Alternatively, roll the dough between sheets of parchment paper.

5. What if I don’t have cookie cutters?

Use a knife or the rim of a glass to create simple shapes.

6. Can I use almond or lemon extract instead of vanilla?

Absolutely! Almond or lemon extract adds a unique flavor to the cookies.

7. How do I store baked cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled to make more cookies.

9. What’s the best icing for decorating?

Royal icing works best for detailed designs, while buttercream frosting is ideal for spreading and piping.

10. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Conclusion:

Cut-out sugar cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re an opportunity to create memories with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them plain or decked out in colorful decorations, these cookies are sure to bring joy to any occasion. With this easy recipe, you can bake a batch of perfection every time.

YouTube Video Credits:
Sally’s Baking Recipes

Be the first to comment