The Ultimate Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe: Perfectly Sweet & Festive
Are you ready to unleash your inner baker and create the most delightful cut-out sugar cookies? This recipe delivers perfectly crisp edges, a tender crumb, and a canvas for your creative flair. Get ready for holiday cheer, birthday celebrations, or simply a sweet treat anytime!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Let's get baking!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for a smooth, creamy dough. Don't melt it!
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: This provides the sweetness and helps create a tender texture.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a warm aroma.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of our cookie dough.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This is a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked, cut-out sugar cookies:
1. Cream Together the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results – this step is crucial for a tender cookie!
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
6. Roll Out the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a rolling pin to ensure even thickness.
7. Cut Out the Cookies:
Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes. You can get creative here! Re-roll the scraps to make more cookies.
8. Bake the Cookies:
Place the cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool and Decorate:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, decorate with your favorite icing, sprinkles, and candies!
Tips for Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the dough thoroughly: This prevents spreading.
- Use a cookie cutter with a sharp edge: This creates clean, precise shapes.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheets: This ensures even baking.
- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating: This prevents the icing from melting.
Get Creative with Decorations!
The fun doesn't stop at baking! Experiment with different icing colors, sprinkles, candies, and even edible glitter to create stunning designs. Make them festive for holidays, personalize them for birthdays, or simply let your creativity shine!
This recipe is your gateway to creating unforgettable memories and delicious treats. Happy baking!
