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The Best Soft Cutout Sugar Cookies That Hold Their Shape

A tall stack of freshly baked, golden sugar cookie rounds sprinkled with sugar on a white plate.
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Make classic, buttery sugar cookies that stay perfectly shaped for decorating. This easy recipe yields soft, chewy cookies ideal for holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  4. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  7. Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.
  8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. For soft cookies, err on the side of underbaking slightly.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Notes

  • For the softest cookies, chill the dough thoroughly. This prevents spreading.
  • If you are making these for holiday decorating, use a secret ingredient like a small amount of cornstarch in the flour mix to help them hold sharp edges.
  • If you are looking for quick weeknight meals instead of baking, consider using a meal planning service to save time.
  • These cookies pair well with simple royal icing or a basic buttercream frosting recipe.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.purecookingjoy.com/best-soft-cutout-sugar-cookie-recipe/

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