Cutout Sugar Cookies

Name: Cutout Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted; 1 teaspoon salt; Royal icing (optional for decorating)

By:

Sarah

Published:

November 16, 2025

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These Cutout Sugar Cookies are as fun to make as they are delicious to eat. Imagine your kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of fresh-baked cookies, each one perfectly shaped and just begging to be frosted! If you’ve ever wanted to create gorgeous cookies for holidays, birthdays, or just because, this recipe is your new best friend. It combines simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, making it great for bakers of all levels. Plus, the joy of decorating these cookies adds an extra layer of fun to the process. Let’s get started on this delightful journey of baking!

Why This Recipe Works

This Cutout Sugar Cookie Recipe is crafted to perfection, ensuring that each cookie maintains its shape while achieving that delightful softness we all crave. The combination of room temperature ingredients and a careful mixing technique results in the ideal texture, making these cookies a versatile choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just want a sweet snack, you’ll find that they are always welcome. The balanced mixture keeps the cookies from becoming too crumbly while making sure they’re firm enough to hold up under frosting. With warm bites that melt in your mouth, these cookies are sure to be a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cutout Sugar Cookie Recipe

These sugar cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly fun to decorate. With a few simple ingredients, you can create beautiful cookies that are perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Plus, the royal icing adds a professional touch without needing advanced skills.

You’ll love how versatile they are! Swap in different flavors for your own twist, add fun sprinkles, or use themed cookie cutters to customize your creations. No matter how you decorate them, you’re sure to enjoy the process just as much as the end result.

Ingredients

16 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
1 teaspoon salt
Royal icing (optional for decorating)

Having everything ready helps make the process smooth and enjoyable. It’s amazing how these simple ingredients can combine to create something so delightful.

Mix Wet Ingredients

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on low speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy, taking care not to over-beat. Next, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed to make sure everything blends well. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined, letting that delicious aroma fill your kitchen.

This step acts as the foundation for the cookies. It’s crucial to create that perfect texture which will make each bite enjoyable.

Sift Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized mixing bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and salt together. This step is crucial as it ensures an even distribution of the dry ingredients. Additionally, sifting can help avoid any clumps, leading to the perfect cookie texture.

You’ll want to take your time with this step. After all, uniformity is key to achieving everything you want from this cookie!

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Beat on low speed for about 30 to 45 seconds, allowing the mixture to come together. Scrape down the sides of the bowl once more and continue mixing for another 30 to 45 seconds until the dough pulls away from the sides.

This part is where your dough starts to take shape. A well-mixed dough will lead to cookies that hold their shape perfectly when cut out.

Roll Out Dough

Take the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Take one portion and place it between two sheets of wax paper. Then, roll it out to a ¼ inch thickness. Repeat with the second portion of dough.

Rolling the dough between wax paper makes it easier to handle. It also saves you from a messy counter, allowing you to focus on your shapes and designs.

Chill the Dough

Now, stack the sheets of rolled-out dough on a baking sheet, keeping the wax paper intact. Chill in the refrigerator for about an hour or until the dough is firm to the touch. This chilling step is essential because it prevents the cookies from spreading during baking.

Don’t rush this step! It’s worth the time for perfectly shaped cookies.

Bake Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut shapes out of the chilled dough and carefully arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. After arranging, pop them back in the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes. This extra chill helps them hold their shape even more.

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping an eye out for light golden brown edges, which show they’re done. Remember, it’s better not to over-bake.

Cool Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling time is perfect for preparing your royal icing if you plan to decorate.

Fresh out of the oven, the cookies smell so good! Waiting for them to cool can be the toughest part.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the cookies with a side of milk for a classic pairing.
Arrange them on a festive platter for special occasions like birthdays or holidays.
Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

No matter how you choose to serve them, they’re bound to bring smiles to everyone who gets to taste these lovely cookies.

Tips for Success

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Don’t skip the chilling steps; they are crucial for retaining the cookie shape.
Experiment with different cookie shapes for added fun and creativity!

These tips are small but can make a significant difference in your baking. With practice, you’ll find your rhythm and create the perfect batches each time.

Variations

Chocolate Sugar Cookies: For a twist, substitute ½ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
Flavor Variations: Try adding almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist!

Having options helps keep things exciting in the kitchen. You can customize to your heart’s content!

Storage Tips

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
Freeze unbaked dough for up to three months; just thaw and bake when ready!
Decorated cookies can be stored at room temperature for about three days but are best eaten fresh.

Storage matters! With these tips, you can enjoy your creations longer while keeping their taste and texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can work, unsalted butter provides the best flavor and texture.

How can I store leftover dough?
Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake and decorate them in advance. Just store them in an airtight container.

What’s the best way to decorate cutout cookies?
Royal icing or fondant are popular choices for decorating. You can also use colored sprinkles for added fun!

These Cutout Sugar Cookies are perfect for making memories, whether you’re baking with loved ones or surprising friends with a delightful treat. Enjoy sharing these delicious cookies, and let the creativity flow as you decorate them your way!