Sugar Cookie Cutout Recipe

Sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, and cutouts make them even more special—perfect for holidays, parties, or just a fun baking day. This recipe guarantees buttery, sweet cookies that hold their shape and taste delicious.

---

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional for added flavor)
• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Icing (Optional):

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (optional)

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.

Pro Tip: If the dough feels too soft to work with, chill it for about 30 minutes to firm up.

---

2. Roll and Cut

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
3. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Transfer the cutouts to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.

Pro Tip: Dip the cookie cutters in flour to prevent sticking and ensure clean edges.

---

3. Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
2. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

---

Decorating the Cookies

Simple Icing:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for thinner icing) or powdered sugar (for thicker icing).
2. Divide the icing into bowls and add food coloring if desired.

Pro Tip: Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off for detailed designs.

---

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate when ready.
• Make-Ahead Dough: Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

---

Pro Tips for Perfect Sugar Cookies

1. Chill Your Dough: This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
2. Don’t Overbake: Take the cookies out when the edges are lightly golden to ensure a soft, tender texture.
3. Work in Batches: Keep unused dough chilled while working with small portions to avoid stickiness.

---

Enjoy your sugar cookie cutouts with friends and family! Whether it’s a holiday tradition or a spontaneous baking session, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.