Learn how to make these delightful frosted cut-out sugar cookies that are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be decorated with various colorful icing and sprinkles. You'll love how easy and fun it is to create personalized cookies that will impress everyone!
Ingredients
- For the cookies:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- For the frosting:
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Assorted sprinkles and decorations
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take one wrapped dough disk out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
- Gather the dough scraps, reroll, and cut out more shapes.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add food coloring if desired.
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread the frosting onto each cookie using a butter knife or a piping bag.
- Decorate with assorted sprinkles and decorations before the frosting sets.
- Allow the frosting to set completely before storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Interesting Facts
Sugar cookies are believed to have originated in Europe during the medieval period.
Cut-out sugar cookies can be traced back to German settlers who brought the tradition to America.
Decorating cookies with icing became popular in the 17th century.