Oh, the joy of baking cut out sugar cookies! There’s something so magical about rolling out that soft dough, cutting it into fun shapes, and watching them puff up in the oven. This simple recipe for cut out sugar cookies is perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet. Trust me, the combination of vanilla and almond extracts adds a delightful twist that’ll make your taste buds dance! And the best part? You can decorate them any way you like, turning plain cookies into little works of art. So, grab your favorite cookie cutters and let’s get baking these delicious treats that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Gather up these simple ingredients, and let’s get started on making the most delightful cut out sugar cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s nice and creamy!)
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (this gives a lovely flavor!)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for rolling (this makes them sparkle!)
That’s it! Simple, right? Now that you have everything ready, we can jump into the fun part—baking!
How to Prepare Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these cut out sugar cookies! It’s a pretty simple flow, and I promise you’ll have a blast. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because it gets your cookies baking perfectly right from the start!
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Give it a little whisk to mix everything together. This helps the cookies rise nicely!
- In another large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of white sugar until it’s smooth and fluffy. I love using an electric mixer for this—trust me, it makes it easier!
- Beat in 1 egg, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. This is where the magic happens! You’re going to love the aroma!
- Gradually blend the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. I like to do this a little at a time to avoid flour clouds, but feel free to get in there and mix until just combined.
- Now it’s time to roll! Scoop out some dough and roll it into balls, then flatten them slightly. It doesn’t have to be perfect; the cookies will spread a bit while baking.
- Roll the flattened dough in 3 to 4 tablespoons of sugar to give them that lovely sparkle. It adds a sweet crunch that’s just divine!
- Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space to breathe. They’ll puff up beautifully!
- Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until they’re golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them because every oven is a bit different!
- Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool on wire racks. This part is crucial—allowing them to cool helps them set perfectly!
And there you have it! Your cut out sugar cookies are ready to be decorated or enjoyed as is. I can’t wait for you to taste them!
Why You’ll Love This Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Oh, let me tell you why this cut out sugar cookies recipe is a total winner! First off, it’s just so easy to whip up. With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can dive right in without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the taste? Absolutely delightful! The combination of vanilla and almond extracts gives these cookies a flavor that’s simply irresistible. You’ll be surprised at how a few simple tweaks can elevate a classic treat!
And the best part? These cookies are incredibly versatile! You can shape them into any fun design you like, from festive stars to adorable hearts, making them perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon snack. You can even get creative with decorations! Whether you want a simple dusting of sugar or a splash of colorful icing, the possibilities are endless. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire!
Tips for Success with Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
To make sure your cut out sugar cookies turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few pro tips that will help you nail it every time!
- Chill the Dough: After you mix the dough, consider chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies hold their shape when baking. Plus, it prevents them from spreading too much!
- Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also helps the cookies bake evenly. You’ll get that golden edge while keeping the centers soft and chewy!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on those cookies! They should be just golden around the edges and still slightly soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool, so don’t let them get too brown!
- Experiment with Shapes: Have fun with your cookie cutters! You can use seasonal shapes or even create your own designs. Just remember to flour your cutters to prevent sticking.
- Decorate Wisely: If you plan to decorate, wait until the cookies have completely cooled. This way, your icing or sprinkles won’t melt or slide off. Plus, it gives you a nice canvas to work on!
- Storage for Freshness: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for up to a week, but trust me, they won’t last that long once people get a taste!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the most delightful cut out sugar cookies that everyone will rave about. Enjoy the baking adventure!
Variations of Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
The beauty of cut out sugar cookies lies in their versatility! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the world of flavors and decorations is your oyster. Here are some fun and creative ideas to mix things up:
- Citrus Zest: Add a burst of flavor by incorporating some lemon or orange zest into the dough. It gives your cookies a fresh, zesty kick that’s perfect for spring and summer!
- Chocolate Chip Surprise: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist. The melty chocolate adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet cookie base.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor—perfect for fall and winter festivities. These spices will elevate your cookies to a whole new level!
- Fun Flavor Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like coconut or lemon instead of vanilla or almond. Each variation will create a unique taste that can surprise and delight!
- Decorating Delight: Get creative with your decorations! Use royal icing to create intricate designs, or simply dip half of each cookie in chocolate and sprinkle with nuts or coconut for a crunchy finish.
- Seasonal Sprinkles: Change up your sprinkles according to the season! Use pastel colors for Easter, red and green for Christmas, or spooky shapes for Halloween. It’s a simple way to make your cookies festive!
With these variations, you can keep your baking exciting and cater to any occasion or taste preference. The possibilities are truly endless, so let your creativity shine through as you whip up your cut out sugar cookies!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Now that you’ve baked these delicious cut out sugar cookies, it’s important to know how to store them so they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to keep those sweet treats at their best:
- Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat your cookies within a week, just pop them in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week!
- Refrigeration: If you want to keep them even longer, you can store the cookies in the fridge. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to avoid any unwanted fridge odors. They should last for about two weeks this way!
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze your cookies! I like to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. They’ll taste just as fresh as the day you baked them!
- Reheating: If you prefer your cookies warm, you can pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will bring back that delightful softness and warmth without drying them out. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t get overbaked!
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your cut out sugar cookies for days to come, keeping that sweet flavor and delightful texture intact. Happy snacking!
Nutritional Information for Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Curious about what’s in these delightful cut out sugar cookies? Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values per cookie, but keep in mind that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
These cookies are a sweet treat, and while they have a bit of sugar, they’re perfect for enjoying in moderation. So go ahead, indulge a little—you deserve it!
FAQ About Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Got questions about making cut out sugar cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that might pop into your mind while you bake:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used, but keep in mind it might change the texture a bit, making the cookies a little denser. You might want to mix it with some all-purpose flour for a lighter result.
What’s the best way to roll out the dough?
I recommend rolling it out between two sheets of parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes it super easy to transfer your cookie shapes to the baking sheet!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just let it soften a bit at room temperature before rolling it out.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking helps a ton! Also, make sure your butter is softened, not melted, as melted butter can lead to spreading.
Can I substitute the sugar with a sugar alternative?
Sure! You can use sugar substitutes, but make sure to check the conversion ratios, as they can vary significantly. Some may not give you the same sweetness or texture, so it might take a bit of experimenting.
How can I make these cookies festive for holidays?
Decorate them with colored icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter! You can also use themed cookie cutters to shape them into holiday designs—think Christmas trees, hearts for Valentine’s Day, or bunnies for Easter!
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water, a little at a time, until it holds together better. Just be careful not to add too much or it can get sticky!
Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need tips while you bake. Enjoy your cookie-making adventure!
Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe: 8 Irresistible Tips to Succeed
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple recipe for cut out sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion.
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
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Roll the dough into balls and flatten them slightly.
- Roll the flattened dough in sugar.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden.
- Cool on wire racks.
Notes
- Chill the dough for easier handling.
- You can use cookie cutters for different shapes.
- Decorate with icing or sprinkles after baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cut out sugar cookies recipe
