Chocolate Cut Out Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of chocolate with the joy of decorating. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday celebration, a birthday party, or just a regular day when you need a sweet pick-me-up. With their fun shapes and delicious flavor, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chocolate Cut Out Cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. The process allows you to get creative with cookie shapes and decorations. These cookies not only taste great but also provide an excellent opportunity for family bonding time. Plus, they are perfect for sharing with friends or giving as gifts. Because they can be customized in so many ways, these cookies can brighten up any gathering.
How to Make Chocolate Cut Out Cookies
Making Chocolate Cut Out Cookies is simple and enjoyable. Follow the steps below to create your batch of delicious cookies.
Ingredients:
- 100 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 80 g (2/3 cup) powdered sugar
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 180 g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 25 g (1/4 cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 1–2 perforated baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder (if using).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer or the paddle attachment of a stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix again until fully incorporated.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture and mix on low speed until just combined, forming a sticky dough.
- Use a pastry scraper to gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and shape it into a flat disk.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick, then freeze for 10–15 minutes to firm it up for easy cutting.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Chocolate Cut Out Cookies
Chocolate Cut Out Cookies can be served as is, but they become extra special when decorated with icing, sprinkles, or other toppings. Arrange them on a platter for parties or wrap them in cellophane for lovely gifts. They go well with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
How to Store Chocolate Cut Out Cookies
To keep your Chocolate Cut Out Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Tips to Make Chocolate Cut Out Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the dough properly to make rolling and cutting shapes easier.
- Use light dusting of flour on the rolling surface to prevent sticking.
- Don’t overbake the cookies! They should be soft in the center when taken out of the oven.
Variation
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or different flavor extracts to the dough for a unique twist. You can also try out different shapes or holiday themes with your cookie cutters.
FAQs
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but cookies made with margarine might have a different texture and taste.
2. How can I make my cookies more chocolaty?
You can increase the amount of cocoa powder or add chocolate chips to your dough.
3. Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped dough for about 3 months. Just let it thaw before baking.
Enjoy making and sharing your delicious Chocolate Cut Out Cookies!
Chocolate Cut Out Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 100 g unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature.
- 80 g powdered sugar
- 1 unit egg, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 180 g all-purpose flour
- 25 g unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 pinch salt
- ½ tsp baking powder (optional) Optional for extra lift.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 1–2 perforated baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder (if using).
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture and mix on low speed until just combined, forming a sticky dough.
- Use a pastry scraper to gather the dough into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap, and shape into a flat disk.
- Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Roll the chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thick, then freeze for 10–15 minutes.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
