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Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

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Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are tender, buttery cookies that hold their shape perfectly, making them ideal for decorating. With a delicate vanilla flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re a timeless favorite for holidays, parties, and family baking traditions.

Ingredients

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until smooth.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
  5. Divide dough in half, flatten into disks, and wrap each in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness.
  8. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters and place on prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
  9. Bake 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just barely golden.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugar once cooled.

Notes

  • Chill dough to help cookies keep their shape.
  • Do not overbake for a soft texture—edges should be just set.
  • Add citrus zest or flavored extracts for variety.
  • Decorate with royal icing for crisp designs or buttercream for a softer finish.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.

Nutrition

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