Cut out sugar cookies are a classic treat loved by many. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a birthday, or just want something sweet to enjoy at home. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, these cookies are easy to decorate and even more fun to eat!
Why Make This Recipe
This cut out sugar cookie recipe stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The dough is easy to work with, allowing you to create various shapes and designs. Plus, the cookies have a delightful taste that pairs perfectly with frosting or can be enjoyed plain. Whether you’re baking with kids or surprising friends, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around.
How to Make Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step helps create a light texture in your cookies.
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl if needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Once everything is added, increase the speed slightly and beat just until the dough starts to come together and forms a soft ball. This should take about 2 minutes—don’t overmix.
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to a thickness between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch. Thicker cookies (closer to 1/2 inch) will be softer and more cake-like, while thinner ones will bake up slightly crispier. Avoid going thicker than 1/2 inch to ensure even baking.
- Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough. Carefully transfer each cookie to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
- Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn a light golden color. They may look slightly underdone in the center—that’s okay. They’ll finish setting as they cool.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them plain or decorate with your favorite frosting, glaze, or sprinkles.
How to Serve Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Serve these delicious cookies on a festive platter or in a colorful tin. They are great for parties, gifts, or simply as a sweet treat during family gatherings. If decorated, they can serve as delightful centerpiece treats.
How to Store Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
To keep your sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months.
Tips to Make Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for the best texture.
- Chill your dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and cut.
- If you want vibrant colors, use gel food coloring to tint your frosting.
Variation
For a twist, try adding almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor. You can also mix in colorful sprinkles or chocolate chips into the dough before rolling it out.
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture and flavor of the cookies.
2. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! You can wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before rolling out.
3. How do I make the cookies softer?
For softer cookies, roll the dough thicker (around 1/2 inch) and take them out of the oven when they are just lightly golden around the edges.
Enjoy your baking adventure with this simple and delightful cut out sugar cookie recipe!
Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for rolling) Additional flour may be needed for rolling.
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup 3/4 cup butter (softened) Butter should be softened, not melted.
- 1 cup 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes or until pale and fluffy.
- Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract.
- With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough forms a soft ball.
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to a thickness between 1/4 inch and 1/2 inch.
- Use cookie cutters to cut shapes from the dough and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are light golden color.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
