Description
Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate holiday treat—Cut-Out Sugar Cookies! These buttery, sweet cookies are perfect for any festive occasion, from cozy winter mornings to cheerful Christmas parties. With their crisp edges, soft centers, and delightful vanilla-almond flavor, they’re as fun to decorate as they are to eat. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast options with a hint of indulgence or creative baking ideas for the family, this easy recipe delivers joy in every bite. Use your favorite cookie cutters and let your imagination take over—these cookies are a blank canvas for colorful icing, sprinkles, and sparkle. Perfect for dessert tables, edible gifts, or even a new tradition, these cookies bring magic and smiles to every moment.
Ingredients
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
Optional Icing:
2 cups powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons milk or water
½ teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
Food coloring, if desired
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Divide dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut shapes using cookie cutters and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden.
- Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If decorating, mix icing ingredients until smooth and decorate as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour chilling)
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
- Category: Dessert