Are you ready to transform your baking game with the most irresistible sugar cookies that will have everyone begging for your recipe? These aren't just ordinary cookies - they're a magical blend of buttery goodness, delicate texture, and pure nostalgic delight that will transport you back to childhood baking memories. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this foolproof recipe will help you create picture-perfect cut out cookies that are equally delicious and stunning!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue to beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- If the dough seems too dry or crumbly, add the buttermilk one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. You may need 3 to 4 tablespoons, depending on the humidity and the flour.
- Once the dough is ready, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thick using a rolling pin.
- Using your favorite cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the rolled dough and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, you can decorate your sugar cookies with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this creates the perfect creamy base for your cookies.
- Don't Overmix: Mix your dough just until ingredients are combined to keep cookies tender and prevent toughness.
- Chill Your Dough: For cleaner cut-out shapes, refrigerate your dough for 30 minutes before rolling and cutting.
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and ensures even baking with easy cookie removal.
- Roll Consistently: Aim for a uniform 1/4 inch thickness to guarantee even baking and professional-looking results.
- Watch Baking Time Carefully: Cookies should be just lightly golden at the edges - they'll continue cooking slightly after removal from the oven.
- Cool Completely Before Decorating: Patience is key to prevent icing from melting and ensure a perfect finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 140kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
