Classic Vanilla Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
These simple vanilla sugar cookies are a reliable base for holiday decorating. The dough requires a few chilling steps to ensure it rolls smoothly and bakes with sharp, defined edges rather than spreading out in the oven.
Instructions
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Mix Wet Ingredients
Cream the room-temperature butter and powdered sugar together until combined. Add the room-temperature egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate. -
Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder together. Add this mixture to the wet ingredients little by little, mixing until the dough is well incorporated. -
Initial Rest and Roll
Let the dough rest for approximately 30 to 60 minutes to firm up slightly. Roll the dough out between sheets of baking paper until it reaches a thickness suitable for cutting. -
Chill and Cut
Place the rolled dough in the refrigerator for a few hours. Once the dough is firm, remove it and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters. Lightly dust with additional flour if the edges stick. -
Final Chill
Place the cut cookie shapes on a baking tray and return them to the refrigerator for another 1 to 2 hours. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading during baking. -
Bake
Bake the chilled cookies at 180 degrees Celsius for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Monitor closely as ovens vary, and adjust time as needed to prevent over-browning.
Tips
Ensure butter is at the correct room temperature where it yields slightly to pressure but still holds its shape. Keep cuts close together when cutting to maximize yield. Combining scraps with a reserved portion of dough and re-rolling can save extra cookies. Chilling is essential for defined edges.
Video
“EASY SUGAR COOKIE RECIPE ~ PERFECT FOR CUT OUT COOKIES” by Natalia Campbell, watch on YouTube.
About this recipe
This recipe yields approximately two dozen cookies, depending on the size of the cookie cutters used. The flavor profile is straightforward, relying on salted butter and vanilla extract for a classic taste that pairs well with frosting or plain sugar.
Serving these cookies involves enjoying them as part of a holiday cookie exchange or baking session. The firm dough after chilling makes it easy to shape into intricate designs. Keep in mind that oven temperatures vary, so the baking time may need slight adjustment to achieve the perfect golden hue at the edges.
