Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies: A Sweet Holiday Tradition
Every holiday season brings a sense of magic, and one of the delightful ways to embrace that spirit is through the joy of baking. These Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are not just treats; they are a canvas for creativity and a way to create lasting memories with loved ones. The sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen is simply irresistible! So, gather your family together, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe! Don’t forget to subscribe to receive more recipes like this directly to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall head over heels for these sugar cookies! They are perfectly sweet, with just the right amount of crispness, making each bite a heavenly experience. What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity – it’s a wonderful baking project to enjoy with kids or friends. Plus, the versatility of these cookies allows you to shape them into festive designs that celebrate any occasion! From hearts to stars, the possibilities are endless, and icing them together adds an extra layer of fun!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 egg
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– Frosting or icing (optional for decorating)
Necessary Tools
– Electric mixer
– Two mixing bowls
– Plastic wrap
– Rolling pin
– Cookie cutters
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to customize your cookies! If you’re looking for a substitute for the butter, try using coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Want to add a little zest? A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest can brighten up the flavor beautifully. You can also incorporate fun add-ins like chocolate chips or sprinkles for a festive touch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This creates a wonderful base for your cookies!
2. Add the vanilla extract and egg, mixing until everything is well combined. Can you smell that? It’s heavenly!
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, combining until a soft dough forms. You want it to be just right – not too sticky, but not too dry!
5. Divide the dough into two portions, wrapping each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line the baking sheets with parchment paper – this makes cleanup a breeze!
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your favorite shapes, transferring them to the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. The excitement builds as the cookies start to puff up in the oven!
9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Now is the time to get creative and decorate with frosting or icing if desired!
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk, or pack them up as delightful gifts for friends and family. They also make a cheerful centerpiece for holiday dessert tables.
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is truly softened, as this is key to achieving that fluffy texture.
– Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for the cookies to hold their shape.
– Experiment with different shapes and colors when decorating to make them truly festive!
Storing and Reheating
To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds, and they’ll be just as delightful!
FAQ Section
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before chilling it or after cutting it into shapes. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Q: What if I don’t have cookie cutters?
A: No problem! You can use a knife to cut out shapes or even create simple squares or circles.
Conclusion
These Classic Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are not just a recipe; they are a chance to create memories, spread joy, and enjoy the sweetness of the season. Their simplicity and versatility make them a fantastic choice for any celebration. We’d love to hear how your cookies turn out! Please leave a review, share your photos, or tag us on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 cookie):
Calories: 100
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Happy baking! Enjoy every sweet moment!
