Classic Easy Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These classic cut-out sugar cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The recipe yields tender, delicious cookies that hold their shape beautifully for decorating.
Equipment
- medium bowl
- large bowl
- electric mixer
- plastic wrap
- baking sheets
- rolling pin
- cookie cutters
- wire rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (300g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (226g), softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional for Decorating
- Food coloring
- sprinkles
- royal icing or buttercream
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined, then scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined, being careful not to overmix the soft dough.
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each into a disc, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours to firm it up and prevent spreading.
- Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), line baking sheets with parchment paper, and lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
Baking
- Roll one dough disc to an even ¼ inch thickness, cut into shapes with cookie cutters, and transfer to prepared baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between cookies.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, closely monitoring to prevent over-baking as time varies with cookie size and thickness.
- Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
- Once fully cooled, decorate the cookies as desired with royal icing, buttercream, sprinkles, or edible glitter.
Notes
Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing cookies from spreading and ensuring they hold their shape during baking. Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Baking time may vary, so keep a close eye on the cookies to avoid over-baking and achieve a perfectly tender texture.