These classic cut-out sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion. They have a buttery flavor and a soft, tender texture. Decorate them with colorful icing and sprinkles to make them even more festive. This recipe is simple and easy to follow, so you can enjoy homemade sugar cookies without any fuss. They make a great treat for holidays, birthdays, or any time you're in the mood for something sweet.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- Icing and sprinkles, for decoration
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a disk.
- Wrap the dough disks in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the dough disks to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough. Place the cut-out cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the second dough disk.
- Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with icing and sprinkles.
- Let the icing set before serving or storing the cookies.
Interesting Facts
Sugar cookies are believed to have originated in the mid-1700s in Nazareth, Pennsylvania.
The tradition of decorating sugar cookies during the holidays became popular in the 18th century.
In the United States, sugar cookies are often associated with Christmas and are a popular treat during the holiday season.