Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
chilled and cubed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
- 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking pans with parchment paper and set aside.
- 2
Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- 3
Add the egg, vanilla, baking powder, and salt, and mix until combined and smooth, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed.
- 4
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the flour, only mixing until the dough just comes together. Give it a final mix with a rubber spatula, folding and pressing it together, to ensure all of the flour is mixed in.
- 5
Separate the dough in half and work with one piece at a time, roll the dough ¼-inch thick. Cut out shapes as desired and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 1 inch of space between cookies.
- 6
Bake until the cookies look set and are slightly firm to the touch but still pale, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- 7
Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
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About this Recipe
Tired of cookie dough that demands hours of chilling or cookies that spread into shapeless blobs? You've found your new favorite! These Cut-Out Sugar Cookies promise a super soft texture and perfectly defined edges every single time, without the fuss.
Why This Recipe Works Wonders
This recipe redefines what's possible with cut-out sugar cookies. The genius lies in using chilled, cubed butter directly from the fridge, skipping the tedious softening step. This seemingly simple tweak, combined with specific ingredient ratios, is the secret weapon that prevents spreading and ensures your cookies hold their festive shapes beautifully, all without any need for chilling the dough. You get to bake immediately, enjoying fresh cookies faster than ever.
What truly sets these cookies apart is their consistent texture. You can expect a delightfully soft interior that melts in your mouth, never dry or crumbly. The clean edges mean your intricate cookie cutter designs will be perfectly preserved, making them ideal for decorating or simply enjoying plain with a cup of tea. It's a truly user-friendly baking experience that delivers impressive results.
Customization & Variations
While delicious on their own, these sugar cookies are a fantastic canvas for your creativity. For a citrusy twist, try adding a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the dough alongside the vanilla extract. You can also experiment with different extracts, swapping some of the vanilla for almond extract for a classic flavor, or even a touch of peppermint during the holidays. For a richer flavor, you could consider using brown sugar in part for the granulated sugar, though this might slightly alter the texture and color.
These cookies are perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness and charm. They're wonderful for holiday platters, birthday parties, or just a simple afternoon treat. Serve them undecorated for a rustic appeal, or get creative with your favorite royal icing or buttercream designs for a truly showstopping display.