The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts Recipe

Looking for perfect sugar cookies for cutouts? This no-spread, easy-to-roll dough makes cookies that hold their shape beautifully while staying soft, buttery, and delicious. Ideal for Christmas cookies, holiday baking, or any special occasion, this recipe ensures sharp edges and a melt-in-your-mouth texture every time!

🛒 Ingredients for The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

To make the best sugar cookies for cutouts, you’ll need:

🧈 Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

🥚 Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)

🍽️ Substitutions for The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

• Dairy-free: Use vegan butter.
• Gluten-free: Swap flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
• No almond extract? Just use extra vanilla!
• Less sugar? Reduce by ¼ cup for a milder sweetness.

👩‍🍳 How to Make The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

Follow these easy steps for perfect sugar cookie cutouts:

1️⃣ Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2️⃣ Cream butter & sugar: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
3️⃣ Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract.
4️⃣ Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5️⃣ Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (this helps prevent spreading).
6️⃣ Roll & cut: On a floured surface, roll the dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut into shapes.
7️⃣ Bake: Place cookies 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutesuntil edges are lightly golden.
8️⃣ Cool & decorate: Let cookies cool completely before icing.

🎨 Decorating Tips for Sugar Cookies

• Use royal icing for crisp, detailed designs.
• Buttercream frosting adds a soft, creamy texture.
• Dip in chocolate for an elegant touch.
• Add sprinkles before baking for extra fun!

✅ Recipe Tips for the Best Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

• Chill the dough before rolling to prevent spreading.
• Use parchment paper to roll dough easily without sticking.
• Don’t overbake! The cookies should be just set, not browned.
• For extra sharp edges, freeze cutout shapes for 10 minutes before baking.

🥶 Storage Instructions for Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

• Room temperature: Store undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: Keep decorated cookies fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezer: Freeze dough for up to 3 months or baked cookies for up to 2 months.

🔄 Recipe Variations for The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

• Chocolate Sugar Cookies: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder.
• Lemon Sugar Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
• Spiced Sugar Cookies: Mix in ½ teaspoon cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Glazed Cookies: Top with a simple sugar glaze.

❓ FAQs About The Ultimate Sugar Cookies for Cutouts

Why is my dough too sticky?

Chill the dough longer or add 1 tablespoon flour at a time until manageable.

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling helps cookies hold their shape—don’t skip it!

What’s the best icing for sugar cookies?

Royal icing dries hard and smooth, while buttercream gives a soft finish.

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Store with a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.