Get ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery wonderland with these irresistible cut-out sugar cookies that are guaranteed to become your new favorite treat! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these delightful cookies are surprisingly simple to make and will impress everyone from kids to grandparents. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the option to decorate them in endless creative ways, these sugar cookies are not just a dessert – they're an edible work of art that brings joy and sweetness to any occasion.
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 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for icing)
- 2 tbsp milk (for icing)
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between cookies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the icing, mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
- Once cookies are completely cool, decorate with icing using a piping bag or offset spatula.
- Allow icing to set completely at room temperature for about 1 hour before storing or serving.
Tips
- Keep your butter at room temperature for the perfect creamy consistency, but not too soft.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading and maintain sharp cookie shapes.
- Use a light touch when rolling out dough - too much pressure can make cookies tough.
- Invest in quality cookie cutters with clean, sharp edges for professional-looking results.
- Let cookies cool completely before icing to prevent melting and ensure a smooth finish.
- For vibrant icing colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid for more intense hues.
- Use a squeeze bottle or piping bag for more precise and professional icing designs.
- Store cookies in a single layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain their beautiful decoration.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 160kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
