Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings everyone together. These cookies are tender and sweet, perfect for decorating with colorful icing and sprinkles. They’re great for family gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy afternoon at home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These sugar cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly fun! With simple ingredients you probably have on hand, your family will love creating unique shapes and designs. Plus, the recipe is quick, so you won’t need to spend all day in the kitchen. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike, making them an excellent choice for any occasion.

How to Make Sugar Cookies

Making Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies is a straightforward process. You’ll start by mixing dry ingredients, then cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. After that, simply combine everything into a dough and let it chill. Once ready, roll it out and cut it into fun shapes. Easy peasy!

What You Need to Make It

2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Icing or frosting for decoration (optional)
Sprinkles or edible decorations (optional)

Step-by-Step

Creating Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies is simple if you follow these easy steps:

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing it to firm up.
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
Cut Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool Cookies: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Decorate: Once cooled, decorate the cookies as desired with icing, frosting, and sprinkles.

These steps will guide you in creating Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies that are delicious and visually appealing!

How to Serve Sugar Cookies

These cookies are amazing on their own, but you can take them up a notch with your favorite toppings. Serve them at birthday parties or holiday gatherings to brighten up the snack table. They’re also great for a cozy family movie night with a side of milk. Feel free to mix and match your decorations for each occasion!

How to Store Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before rolling and cutting. Bake as instructed, and enjoy freshly made cookies anytime!

Recipe Tips

Chill the Dough: Never skip chilling the dough. It helps with shaping and prevents spreading.
Use Parchment Paper: This makes cleanup easy and helps the cookies bake evenly.
Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on them; they should be lightly golden on the edges.
Add Flavor: Swap in different extracts for a unique twist, like lemon or peppermint.
Ideal Rolling: Dust your rolling pin and surface with flour to prevent sticking.

Variations & Swaps

Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add some chocolate chips for a new texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
Holiday Decor: Add spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm holiday twist.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready. When you’re ready to bake, just roll it out and cut your shapes.

How do I freeze the cookies?
To freeze, place the baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious for up to three months.

Can I replace butter with margarine?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute. However, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture. If going dairy-free, choose a non-dairy butter alternative.

What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?
You can use traditional icing, buttercream, or even royal icing for more intricate designs. Sprinkles also add a fun touch and are great for kids to customize.

Why did my cookies spread too much?
If the dough wasn’t chilled enough or the butter was too warm, the cookies could spread. Always ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled before baking to maintain their shape.

Enjoy baking and sharing these lovely cookies with family and friends!