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 375ยฐF 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