Delicious Cut Out Sugar Cookie Recipe
Ingredients
This recipe for delicious cut out sugar cookies is easy to follow and will be sure to please your family and friends. To make these tasty treats, you will need:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets. In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg, then stir in the milk and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Place cookies 1 inch apart on cookie sheets. Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven, or until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely before decorating.
Decorating the Cookies
You can decorate these cut out sugar cookies with royal icing, buttercream frosting, or your favorite store-bought icing. If you decide to use royal icing, you will need to make sure the cookies have cooled completely first. To make the royal icing, you will need:
- 3 tablespoons meringue powder
- 4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
- 6 tablespoons warm water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a large bowl, beat together the meringue powder, confectioners' sugar and water until stiff peaks form. Beat in the vanilla extract. Divide the icing into separate bowls and tint with food coloring, if desired. Use a piping bag or a spoon to decorate the cookies. Allow the icing to dry completely before storing in an airtight container.
Storing the Cookies
These cut out sugar cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for 1 hour. Once the cookies are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zipper-top bag and store in the freezer. To thaw, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and allow to thaw at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
If you want to add flavor to the cookies, try adding 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract, lemon extract, or orange extract to the dough. You can also add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts or 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough. If you want to make these cookies extra special, try adding sprinkles to the icing before it has a chance to dry. To make the cookies more festive, use seasonal cookie cutters.
This cut out sugar cookie recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Not only are these cookies delicious, but they are also easy to make and decorate. Give this recipe a try and you won't be disappointed!