Introduction

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are the heart and soul of holiday baking and special celebrations. From Christmas trees and snowflakes to hearts, stars, and birthday shapes, these cookies are beloved not just for their taste, but for the memories they create. Rolling, cutting, baking, and decorating sugar cookies is more than a recipe—it’s a tradition passed down through generations.

What makes a truly great cut-out sugar cookie is balance. The dough must be soft enough to roll easily, sturdy enough to hold its shape in the oven, and flavorful enough to stand on its own even before icing. This recipe delivers all of that. With buttery richness, gentle vanilla sweetness, and an optional hint of almond extract, these cookies bake up tender with lightly crisp edges and soft centers.

Unlike overly sweet or dry versions, these cut-out sugar cookies are designed to be decorated. They don’t puff up or spread excessively, ensuring your shapes remain sharp and clean after baking. That makes them ideal for royal icing, glaze, buttercream, or simple powdered sugar dusting.

Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing cookies for a holiday exchange, or creating beautifully decorated treats for gifts and parties, this recipe is dependable, versatile, and easy to work with. Below, you’ll find detailed steps, expert tips, variations, and answers to common questions to help you achieve perfect results every time.

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Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation :

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is essential for creating tender cookies with a smooth texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until fully combined and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two discs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents spreading and makes rolling easier.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Step 7: Cut the Shapes

Use cookie cutters to cut desired shapes. Transfer cookies to parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between them.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are set but not browned.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Variation

🎄 1. Classic Vanilla Cookies
Skip the almond extract for a pure vanilla flavor.

🍋 2. Lemon Sugar Cookies
Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest for a fresh citrus twist.

🍫 3. Chocolate Cut-Out Cookies
Replace 1/4 cup flour with cocoa powder.

🎨 4. Colored Dough Cookies
Add gel food coloring to the dough before chilling.

🌾 5. Whole Wheat Option
Substitute half the flour with white whole wheat flour.

COOKING Note :

• Always chill the dough before rolling.
• Avoid overbaking to keep cookies soft.
• Use parchment paper for even baking.
• Allow cookies to cool fully before decorating to prevent icing from melting.

Serving Suggestions :

• Decorate with royal icing for holidays
• Serve with hot cocoa or milk
• Package as edible gifts
• Use for themed parties or birthdays
• Display on festive dessert trays

Tips :

• Roll dough evenly for uniform baking.
• Flour cookie cutters to prevent sticking.
• Re-chill scraps before re-rolling.
• Use room-temperature egg for smoother dough.
• Store undecorated cookies before icing.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

10 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes (plus chilling)

Nutritional Information :

(Approximate per cookie)
Calories: ~150
Protein: ~2 g
Sodium: ~90 mg

FAQs

1. Why did my cookies spread?

The dough may not have been chilled long enough.

2. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, freeze for up to 3 months.

3. How long do baked cookies last?

Up to 1 week in an airtight container.

4. Can I decorate ahead of time?

Yes, decorated cookies store well once icing is dry.

5. Do these cookies stay soft?

Yes, when properly baked and stored.

Conclusion

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are timeless, reliable, and endlessly customizable. With their buttery flavor, soft texture, and ability to hold shape, they’re the perfect canvas for creativity. Whether you keep them simple or decorate them elaborately, this recipe guarantees cookies that look beautiful and taste just as good. Once you try this version, it will become your go-to cut-out sugar cookie recipe for every celebration.