Introduction
There’s something magical about cut-out sugar cookies, especially when they come out of the oven, golden brown and just begging for a sprinkle of powdered sugar. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual get-togethers, and they’re a fun way to get creative in the kitchen. With their buttery flavor and tender crumb, these cookies will surely evoke warm memories and sweet smiles all around. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that turns simple ingredients into sugary masterpieces!
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 to 4 tablespoons buttermilk
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder until well combined. Set this aside to let the dry ingredients mingle.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and white sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, embodying a beautiful golden color.
- Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating well after each addition to create a rich and fragrant mixture.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. You’ll want this to be combined but not overmixed.
- If your dough feels crumbly and refuses to hold together, don’t fret—simply add buttermilk one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together in a soft ball.
- Divide the dough into two halves, wrap each half in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop and the dough to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), filling your kitchen with a pre-baking excitement.
- On a floured surface, roll out one half of the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness—this is where you can channel your inner artist!
- Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into your desired shapes and carefully place them on ungreased baking sheets. Spread them out to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before gently transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- If you’re feeling festive, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for that perfect touch of sweetness.
Notes or Tips
For best results, be sure to use room temperature butter for a creamier dough. You can also experiment with different extracts, such as lemon or orange, to impart a unique twist to these classic cookies. If you have extra time, let the iced cookies sit for a while; they tend to taste even better the next day!
Cooking Techniques
One of the key techniques to mastering these sugar cookies is proper chilling time. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to work with but also helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Don’t skip this step! Additionally, ensure your oven is preheated thoroughly before placing cookies inside, as this guarantees even baking for that perfect texture.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out and baking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, but good luck keeping them around that long!
Conclusion
These cut-out sugar cookies are not just a treat; they’re a canvas for your creativity and a source of joy to share with loved ones. Whether you’re decorating them for the holidays or enjoying them plain, each bite is a reminder of the sweetness of home baking. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones to help out, and make some delicious memories today!