When it comes to holiday baking, these Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are an absolute classic. With their buttery flavor, pillowy texture, and crisp edges, these cookies are the perfect canvas for festive creativity.
Whether you love a simple dusting of sugar or an intricate icing masterpiece, these cookies will shine as the centerpiece of your dessert table. They hold their shape beautifully, so you can use your favorite cookie cutters to create everything from snowflakes to candy canes!
What makes these cookies extra special is their balance: soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and delightfully sweet. Pair them with a Frozen Irish Coffee for a grown-up treat or top them with whipped coffee for an irresistibly decadent twist. Baking these cookies is as much fun as eating them—perfect for making memories with family during the holidays.
Why You’ll Be Hooked?
- Perfectly soft and tender: The recipe creates cookies that stay soft for days, making them a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- Customizable and fun: Add your own icing designs or toppings to suit any occasion, from Christmas parties to casual family nights.
- Foolproof baking: This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, even for beginner bakers.
- Make-ahead friendly: These cookies hold up well, so you can bake them in advance and decorate them later without losing that fresh-baked taste.
- Delightful pairings: Serve with a festive drink like Frozen Irish Coffee or simply with whipped cream for an extra indulgence!
Unleash your creativity and spread the holiday cheer one delicious cookie at a time. Happy baking!
Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Handheld or stand mixer with paddle attachment
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling Pin
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheets
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup 170g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup 150g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract optional, but makes the flavor outstanding*
- For Decorating
- Royal Icing or Easy Glaze Icing royal icing is pictured
- Assorted sprinkles
Instructions
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Beat butter and sugar on high speed until smooth, then add egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Mix in the dry ingredients until combined, adding more flour if the dough is too sticky.
- Divide dough into two portions and roll each between parchment paper to 1/4-inch thickness. Chill for 1-2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
- Cut dough into shapes, rerolling scraps until all dough is used.
- Bake for 11-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned, then cool on a wire rack.
- Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing or easy glaze icing, then allow to set.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sodium | 40 mg |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
Cooking Tips & Tricks:
- Chill for Precision: Chilling the dough is crucial for clean, sharp cookie shapes. If the dough becomes too soft while rolling or cutting, pop it back in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.
- Thickness Matters: Keep the dough thickness consistent at 1/4 inch. Thicker cookies will be soft, while thinner ones might crisp more.
- Flavor Boost: Almond extract adds a subtle nutty sweetness that elevates the flavor. If you’re nut-sensitive, consider using a touch of lemon or orange zest instead.
- Perfect Rolling: Rolling the dough between parchment paper prevents sticking and avoids adding too much extra flour, which can toughen the cookies.
- Decorating Fun: Royal icing sets firm for intricate designs, while glaze icing offers a glossy finish. Add sprinkles or edible glitter before the icing sets for a festive touch.
- Storage: Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Decorate after thawing.
These sugar cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you’re feeling creative in the kitchen.
