Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Baking soft cut-out sugar cookies is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness. These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a birthday party, holidays, or just because, this soft cut-out sugar cookies recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Why Make This Recipe

Soft cut-out sugar cookies are a classic treat known for their tender texture and delightful flavor. What makes this recipe stand out is not only its simplicity but also the joy of decorating these cookies in various shapes and designs. The process is fun for both kids and adults, making it an ideal activity for family bonding. Plus, you can customize them according to seasonal themes or personal preferences with colors and toppings.

How to Make Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on your delicious soft cut-out sugar cookies:

• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 whole egg (at room temperature)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3-4 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
• 1/8 teaspoon almond extract (for icing)

Directions

To Make Sugar Cookies:

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
2. Add in the whole egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix well until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Roll out one half of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

To Make Icing:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, whole milk, and the additional vanilla and almond extracts. Whisk until smooth and the desired consistency is reached.
2. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk. If too thin, incorporate more powdered sugar.

How to Ice the Cookies:

1. Once the cookies have completely cooled, use a piping bag or a knife to spread the icing on top of each cookie.
2. Add sprinkles or other decorations to your liking while the icing is still wet.
3. Allow the icing to set at room temperature before serving or storing the cookies.

Pro Tips for Success with Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough not only helps with easier rolling but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
2. Use Proper Measurement: Be sure to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can make the cookies dry. It’s best to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off.
3. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be just set and slightly golden on the edges—overbaking can lead to hard cookies.
4. Experiment with Flavors: While vanilla and almond extracts are traditional, feel free to explore other flavors, such as lemon or orange zest, for a refreshing twist.
5. Get Creative with Icing: When icing, consider using food coloring to create vibrant designs or patterns that match your theme.

Flavor Variations for Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

1. Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add lemon zest and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the dough for a citrusy kick.
2. Chocolate-Dipped Sugar Cookies: Once cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a rich flavor combination.
3. Spiced Sugar Cookies: Incorporate cinnamon and nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced taste.
4. Nutty Sugar Cookies: Mix in finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy texture.
5. Coconut Sugar Cookies: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flavor that pairs well with icing.

Serving Suggestions for Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Serve your soft cut-out sugar cookies on a festive platter, especially during gatherings and celebrations. Pair them with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a cozy snack time. These cookies also make excellent gifts; consider packaging them in decorative boxes or bags for friends and family. Additionally, they can be the star of a dessert table at parties or events, displayed alongside other sweet treats.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Store your soft cut-out sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze the cookies. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before serving. Icing can also be frozen; just be sure it is in a sealed container.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Value |
|———-|——-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 21g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 90mg |

FAQ About Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter instead of salted butter. If you choose to use unsalted butter, just add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the recipe to achieve a balanced flavor.

How can I make my sugar cookies softer?

To achieve softer sugar cookies, make sure not to overbake them. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges start to turn golden. Additionally, using a higher ratio of butter to flour can help create a softer texture.

Can I omit the almond extract?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use almond extract due to allergies or personal taste, you can simply omit it. Alternatively, you can replace it with an equal amount of additional vanilla extract or another flavor extract of your choice.

What can I use if I don’t have whole milk for icing?

If you don’t have whole milk, you can substitute it with any other kind of milk, such as skim milk or almond milk. The consistency may vary slightly, but it will still work well for icing.

Can I decorate the cookies before baking?

Decorating before baking is possible, but keep in mind that the decorations may lose some of their vibrancy in the oven. A better approach is to ice and decorate the cookies after they have completely cooled.

Final Thoughts

Making soft cut-out sugar cookies is a delightful activity that brings joy and sweetness into your home. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Remember to have fun with the decorating process and customize the flavors to suit your taste. Whether you share them with loved ones or enjoy them with a cup of tea, you’ll find that these soft cut-out sugar cookies are truly special. Happy baking!

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