The Best Easy Cut-Out Sugar Cookies
These are the ultimate easy cut-out sugar cookies. They are buttery, soft, and—most importantly—they hold their shape perfectly without spreading in the oven.
Ingredients
2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
Royal icing or buttercream for decorating
Instructions
1. Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. Beat butter and sugar on high speed for 3 minutes until creamy.
3. Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract; beat until combined.
4. Mix in dry ingredients on low speed until dough forms.
5. Divide dough in half and roll each half to 1/4-inch thickness between parchment paper.
6. Stack the rolled sheets and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut shapes and place 3 inches apart on lined baking sheets.
8. Bake for 11-12 minutes until edges are set.
9. Cool completely before decorating.
Notes
Room temperature ingredients are key for a smooth dough.
Rolling the dough BEFORE chilling makes the process much easier.
Freeze decorated cookies for up to 3 months between parchment layers.