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Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

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Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are classic, buttery cookies with crisp edges and soft centers, perfect for decorating with icing and sprinkles. They hold their shape beautifully and are a fun, versatile treat for holidays, special occasions, or everyday baking.

  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes per batch
  • Total Time: 3 hours (includes chilling)
  • Yield: 24 cookies (3–4 inch cutters)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • All-purpose flour, plus extra for rolling
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Unsalted butter, softened
  • Granulated sugar
  • 1 egg, at room temperature
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Almond extract (optional)
  • Royal icing, glaze icing, or buttercream for decorating
  • Assorted sprinkles

Instructions

  1. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract (if using).
  3. Mix wet and dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Add more flour if dough feels sticky.
  4. Divide dough into two portions, roll each to 1/4 inch thick, and layer with parchment paper. Chill for at least 2 hours.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.
  6. Cut out shapes, reroll scraps, and place cookies 3 inches apart on baking sheets.
  7. Bake 11–12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Cool 5 minutes on sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
  8. Decorate with icing and sprinkles once cooled. Let icing set before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Chill dough at least 2 hours to prevent spreading.
  • Swap almond extract for lemon or orange extract for a brighter flavor.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist.
  • Use food coloring to tint icing for themed designs.
  • Replace some sugar with brown sugar for a richer cookie.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameals.com/soft-cut-out-sugar-cookies/