Get ready to indulge in the delightful world of Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies! These cookies are a festive favorite, especially during the holiday season, thanks to their soft, tender texture and endless decorating possibilities. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a fun baking activity with the kids, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. With their sweet vanilla flavor and buttery goodness, they are sure to bring smiles to faces young and old. Decorate them with colorful icing and sprinkles to make them truly special, and watch as they become the star of your Christmas cookie platter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy: These cookies have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them irresistible.
- Easy to Decorate: Their smooth surface is perfect for icing, making them a fun project for kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Ideal for any occasion, from Christmas parties to birthdays, you can customize them for any celebration.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared in advance and stored, making it easy to bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
Ingredients List
To make Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- Icing and sprinkles for decoration (optional)
For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg and Extracts: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
- Chill: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
- Preheat 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 one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in Oven: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should look slightly underbaked for that soft texture.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate: Once cooled, decorate with icing and sprinkles as desired.
Variations & Substitutions
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different extracts, such as lemon or peppermint, to create unique flavor profiles.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Cut Out Shapes: Use seasonal cookie cutters to create festive shapes for holidays or special occasions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Decorate after thawing.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
What icing works best for decorating?
Royal icing or a simple powdered sugar glaze works wonderfully for decorating sugar cookies.
How can I achieve the best soft texture?
Be careful not to overbake the cookies. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to set while cooling.
Conclusion
These Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With their delightful flavor and soft texture, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy decorating them with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share your creations in the comments! For more delicious recipes and baking inspiration, visit https://eldralys.com/ and let your culinary journey continue! Happy baking!
