If you are searching for an easy soft cut-out sugar cookie recipe that actually holds its shape and stays tender, you are in the right place. These cookies are simple to make, family-friendly, and perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any time you want beautifully decorated sugar cookies without stress.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
This recipe has been tested and loved for years because it delivers consistent results. The dough is forgiving, easy to roll, and does not spread in the oven, which means your cookie cutter shapes stay crisp and clean. The cookies bake up soft in the center with lightly golden edges and a classic buttery vanilla flavor that works with any icing or decoration.
Another reason to love this recipe is how approachable it is. You do not need special tools, unusual ingredients, or professional baking skills. Whether you are baking with kids or preparing cookies for a party, this recipe keeps the process enjoyable and predictable.
Ingredients for Easy Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
Sugar Cookie Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 half teaspoon salt
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 half teaspoon almond extract, optional
Simple Sugar Cookie Icing (Optional)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk, plus more as needed
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring, optional
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you only have unsalted butter, add an extra quarter teaspoon of salt to the dough. Almond extract adds a classic bakery-style flavor, but you can leave it out if you prefer a pure vanilla cookie or if someone has a nut sensitivity.
For a dairy free version, use a high-quality plant-based butter designed for baking and replace the milk in the icing with almond milk or oat milk. This recipe does not include alcohol or pork-based ingredients, so no substitutions are needed there.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these ingredients first ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed, which helps the cookies bake evenly and stay soft.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step usually takes about two to three minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer. Proper creaming creates air pockets that give the cookies a tender texture.
Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using. Beat until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough should not be sticky but should feel pliable and smooth.
Step 5: Roll and Chill the Dough
Divide the dough in half. Place each portion between two sheets of parchment paper and roll to about one quarter inch thickness. Stack the rolled dough sheets on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Chilling is essential for this easy soft cut out sugar cookies recipe. It keeps the dough firm and prevents spreading during baking.
Step 6: Cut Out the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove one sheet of chilled dough from the refrigerator and peel off the top parchment. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes and transfer them to a parchment lined baking sheet, leaving about one inch of space between cookies.
Re roll scraps as needed and return the dough to the refrigerator if it becomes too soft.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn light golden. Do not overbake. The centers should look set but pale.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare and Apply the Icing (Optional)
In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed. Divide into bowls and tint with gel food coloring if desired.
Decorate cooled cookies using a spoon, piping bag, or squeeze bottle. Allow icing to set completely before stacking or storing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off
- Always chill the dough before cutting shapes
- Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even results
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning
- Let cookies cool completely before decorating to avoid melting icing
Flavor Variations
- Add lemon zest and replace almond extract with lemon extract for a bright citrus flavor
- Mix in a half teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm holiday cookies
- Use vanilla bean paste instead of vanilla extract for deeper flavor
- Add a touch of orange extract for festive winter cookies
- Decorate with flavored icing such as almond or lemon
Serving Suggestions
These easy soft cut out sugar cookies are perfect for cookie platters, holiday dessert tables, bake sales, and edible gifts. Serve them with milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. They also pair beautifully with fruit platters or simple vanilla ice cream.
For parties, display decorated cookies on tiered stands for a festive look that invites guests to grab and enjoy.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Decorated cookies should be layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Unbaked dough can be refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for up to three months. Baked cookies freeze well too. Freeze undecorated cookies in airtight containers for up to three months and thaw at room temperature before decorating or serving.
Print
Easy Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy soft cut out sugar cookies recipe makes tender, buttery cookies that hold their shape perfectly. Ideal for holidays, birthdays, and stress free decorating with a classic vanilla flavor everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (optional icing)
- 2 tablespoons milk, plus more as needed (optional icing)
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (optional icing)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional icing)
- Gel food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, then mix until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Divide dough in half, roll between parchment to 1/4 inch thickness, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cut dough into shapes and place cookies 1 inch apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool cookies completely on a wire rack.
- Whisk icing ingredients until smooth, color if desired, and decorate cooled cookies.
Notes
Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading. Do not overbake to keep cookies soft and tender.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 95 mg |
Values are approximate and based on one cookie without icing.
FAQ About Easy Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Why did my cookies spread?
Cookies usually spread if the dough was not chilled long enough or if the butter was too warm. Make sure the dough is firm before cutting and baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, this dough can be made up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
How thick should I roll the dough?
About one-quarter inch is ideal. Thinner dough may overbake, while thicker dough may not bake evenly.
Can I decorate these cookies without icing?
Absolutely. You can sprinkle colored sugar on top before baking or enjoy them plain. The cookies are flavorful on their own.
Are these cookies good for kids to decorate?
Yes, this easy soft cut out sugar cookies recipe is perfect for kids. The dough is sturdy and easy to handle, and the cookies hold their shape well.
Final Thoughts
This easy soft cut-out sugar cookie recipe is a reliable go-to for any occasion. With its soft texture, classic flavor, and foolproof method, it takes the stress out of baking and decorating. Whether you are making holiday memories or simply enjoying a weekend baking project, these cookies deliver every time.