Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are a classic favorite, and when they’re soft, buttery, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, they become even more irresistible. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or just for a sweet treat, these soft cut-out sugar cookies will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Perfect for decorating, sharing, and gifting, these cookies bring a festive spirit with every bite.

Why This Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe Works

When it comes to sugar cookies, texture is everything. The key to achieving that soft and chewy texture lies in the right balance of ingredients and technique. This recipe delivers a tender cookie that holds its shape perfectly when cut into fun shapes—making them ideal for decorating with colorful frosting or sprinkles.

Here’s why this recipe is a winner:

• Soft and chewy: The dough is rich with butter, which creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Easy to roll and cut: The dough firms up in the fridge, making it easy to roll out and cut into various shapes.
• Versatile: These cookies are a blank canvas for all kinds of creative decorations, from royal icing to sprinkles.
• Perfect for gifting: With a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor, these cookies make a great gift for friends and family during special occasions.

Ingredients for Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

This simple recipe uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but adds a lovely flavor)
• A pinch of cream of tartar (to ensure softness and chewiness)

Optional for Decorating:

• Royal icing, buttercream, or colored sugar for decorating.

How to Make Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cream of tartar. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and prevents any lumps from forming in the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer or a stand mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using). This is the stage where the dough begins to take shape and develop its signature flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can result in tough cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

To ensure your cookies hold their shape, divide the dough into two portions, flatten each portion into a disc, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps the butter firm up and makes it much easier to roll out.

Step 6: Roll and Cut Out the Cookies

Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut the dough into fun shapes.

Step 7: Bake

Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers should still appear soft but firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool and Decorate

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’ve cooled, feel free to decorate with royal icing, buttercream, or your choice of sprinkles. For extra flair, you can even add colored sanding sugar or edible glitter.

Tips for Perfect Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

• Chill the dough: This is crucial for the best results. Chilled dough is easier to work with and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Use parchment paper: For easy cookie removal, always line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
• Don’t overbake: To keep the cookies soft and chewy, be sure not to overbake them. The cookies should just start turning golden at the edges.
• Make ahead: The dough can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Use different shapes: Get creative with your cookie cutters! Stars, hearts, trees, or circles make great options for any occasion.

How to Store Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Once your cookies are decorated and completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just be sure to place a layer of parchment paper between each cookie to prevent them from sticking together.

Conclusion

These soft cut-out sugar cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just looking for a sweet snack. With their tender texture and endless decorating possibilities, they’re sure to impress your friends and family. Bake a batch today, and enjoy the soft, buttery goodness that only a homemade sugar cookie can provide!

Serving and Storage Tips for Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Serving Tips

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Soft cut-out sugar cookies are ideal for celebrations, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat. Serve them on a platter for parties, gift them in decorative boxes, or share them with loved ones.
• Add a Festive Touch: For extra flair, arrange your decorated cookies on a plate with some colorful napkins or place them in a glass jar with a ribbon for a charming presentation.
• Pair with Beverages: These cookies go wonderfully with a variety of drinks. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee, milk, or even a glass of hot cocoa for the perfect cozy treat.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store soft cut-out sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will keep them fresh and soft, perfect for enjoying a cookie a day.
• Layering: If you’re storing multiple layers of cookies, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
• Freezing: To keep your cookies fresh for a longer period, you can freeze them. Once fully cooled and decorated, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Then transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Dough Storage: If you have leftover dough or want to make the cookies in advance, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling it out.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your soft cut-out sugar cookies at their best for days to come!

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
While butter is preferred for its rich flavor and texture, you can substitute margarine if necessary. However, the cookies may not be as soft or flavorful as when using butter. Make sure the margarine is at room temperature before mixing.

2. How do I prevent my cut-out cookies from spreading during baking?
To prevent cookies from spreading, ensure your dough is chilled for at least 2 hours before baking. The colder the dough, the less likely it is to spread. Also, avoid overworking the dough, as it can soften too much and lead to spreading.

3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make both the dough and the cookies ahead of time. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If you’ve already baked and decorated the cookies, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week at room temperature.

4. How can I get the perfect thickness when rolling out the dough?
To ensure uniform thickness, use rolling pin rings or a set of measuring guides to roll your dough evenly. Alternatively, roll the dough between two pieces of parchment paper to prevent it from sticking and to control the thickness more easily. Aim for about 1/4-inch thickness for the best texture.

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