Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
304g
- 1 ¼ cups powdered sugar
141g
- 1 cup unsalted butter
226g
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract)
(optional
- 4 cups powdered sugar
452g
- ½ cup unsalted butter
113g
- 1 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons milk)
regular, low- or non-fat are all fine (or use heavy cream
- Food color and/or sprinkles
if desired
Directions
- 1
Combine all ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a large mixing bowl if using a hand mixer). Mix on low, scraping the bowl occasionally, until the mixture forms a cookie dough. Be sure to start on low or the dry ingredients will fly everywhere!
- 2
Divide the dough in half. Place a large sheet of waxed paper on a large cutting board or flat surface. Place the cookie dough on the wax paper. Place another large sheet of wax paper on top of the cookie dough. Press down into a flat disk with the palm of your hand, then roll out the dough between the two pieces of wax paper. After each 3-4 rolls, carefully lift the top sheet of wax paper off the dough, then replace it, flip the dough over, and carefully peel the other wax paper sheet, replace it, then continue rolling until the dough is about 1/4” thick. Place the dough, still between the wax paper sheets, on another cutting board or cookie sheet.
- 3
Repeat with second half of dough. Place both rolled out cookie dough sheets in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or wrap them well with plastic wrap and chill overnight).
- 4
When ready to cut cookies, preheat oven to 375°F.
- 5
Cut cookies in desired shapes and place them on a parchment or silpat lined baking sheet. Save the scraps of dough and re-roll them as needed. Note: once you re-roll the dough, you may want to chill those cutouts for about 10 minutes before baking them so they’ll keep their shape.
- 6
Bake cookies for 6-10 minutes depending on the size. I take them out as soon as the bottoms start to brown because we like them softer. If you want crunchy cookies, let them cook longer. Cool completely before frosting and decorating.
- 7
To make frosting, beat butter until smooth in a large bowl with an electric mixer. Slowly mix in powdered sugar, then vanilla and 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until the frosting is the consistency you desire. Tint the frosting if you want it a color.
- 8
Frost cookies, decorating them with sprinkles. Store loosely covered at room temperature.
Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
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Based on 235 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving beautifully decorated, soft, and delicate sugar cookies that hold their shape perfectly? You've found your new favorite! This easy cookie recipe consistently delivers delightful results, making it a cherished family favorite for any occasion.
What sets these cut out sugar cookies apart is their incredible texture and reliability. You'll love how the dough handles, allowing for intricate shapes without spreading, resulting in a tender bite every time. This recipe ensures your decorating efforts truly shine, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners.
Expect a wonderfully soft cookie with a delicate crumb and a rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth. The combination of ingredients creates a smooth, pliable dough that's a joy to work with, leading to perfectly formed cookies that are a feast for the eyes and the palate. The optional almond extract adds a subtle, sophisticated note that elevates the overall taste, making these more than just a simple sugar cookie.
For a personal touch, you can easily customize these soft sugar cookies. While vanilla extract is essential for classic flavor, consider adding the optional almond extract for a distinct aroma and taste profile. Get creative with food coloring and sprinkles for the frosting to match any holiday or celebration. You can also vary the shapes using different cookie cutters to suit the theme of your event.
These versatile cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or simply a fun afternoon of baking and decorating with loved ones. Serve them as a festive treat, or package them beautifully for a homemade gift that everyone will appreciate.