Sugar cookies are a delightful treat that can add joy to any occasion. The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe gives you the chance to create beautifully shaped cookies, perfect for holidays, parties, or just a sweet snack at home. With a simple dough that holds its shape well, these sugar cookies are easy to make and fun to decorate.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it creates a soft and chewy cookie that tastes amazing. Second, the dough is easy to work with, allowing you to cut out any shape you desire. Whether it’s stars for Christmas, hearts for Valentine’s Day, or simple rounds for any day, you can create them all! Lastly, the frosting is simple to whip up, and decorating is a joy for both kids and adults alike.
How to Make The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup salted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3-4 tablespoons milk (room temperature)
- 2 ½ tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Directions:
Make the Sugar Cookies:
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, and mix until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough forms.Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.Make the Sugar Cookie Frosting:
In a bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, milk, light corn syrup, and pure vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. If desired, add gel food coloring to create your favorite shades.Decorate With Sprinkles Only (No Frosting):
If you prefer, simply sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on the cookies while they are still warm for a touch of fun without frosting.
How to Serve The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Serve your cookies on a platter, either decorated with frosting and sprinkles or just as they are. These cookies make excellent gifts, party favors, or treats for a family gathering. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!
How to Store The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
To store your cut out sugar cookies, place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you have decorated cookies, be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make The Best Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
- Make sure your butter is softened, but not melted, for the best texture.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
- Don’t overbake; it’s better if they remain soft and chewy.
Variation
For a twist on the classic, try adding zest from a lemon or orange to the dough for a citrusy flavor. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, to create unique tastes.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! You can wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
2. What if I don’t have salted butter?
You can use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to the dough to maintain flavor.
3. How can I make my frosting thicker?
If your frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar bit by bit until you reach your desired consistency.
Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup salted butter (softened) Make sure it’s softened, not melted.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Frosting
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3-4 tablespoons milk (room temperature)
- 2 ½ tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring (optional) For coloring the frosting.
Instructions
Make the Sugar Cookies
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Make the Sugar Cookie Frosting
- In a bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, milk, light corn syrup, and pure vanilla extract.
- Mix until smooth. If desired, add gel food coloring to create your favorite shades.
Decorate
- Sprinkle colored sugar or sprinkles on the cookies while they are still warm if you prefer them without frosting.
