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A plate of soft cutout sugar cookies ready for decorating.

Classic Soft Cutout Sugar Cookies

These classic soft cutout sugar cookies are perfect for any occasion. With a delicate crumb and buttery flavor, they hold their shape beautifully and are ideal for decorating.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cookie Dough
  • 2.5 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 Large egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1.5 tablespoons Cornstarch

Equipment

  • Medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Plastic wrap
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters
  • Wire rack

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch in a medium bowl and set aside.
  2. Beat softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. Roll out one disc of chilled dough to ¼-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface, cut out shapes, and transfer to prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden; avoid overbaking.
  9. Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Notes

For best results, make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Do not overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. Chilling the dough is essential for easy handling and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Enjoy these delicious cookies plain or decorated with your favorite frosting!