There’s something truly special about cut-out cookies – perhaps it’s the joy of choosing the perfect cookie cutter, or the fun of decorating each one with colorful icing and sprinkles. Today, I’m sharing a recipe for Delicious Cut Out Cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a gathering with friends, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are a delightful treat that will bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Delicious Cut Out Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture for your cookies.
2. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a delicious aroma and flavor to the cookies.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry ingredient mixture will give structure to your cookies and ensure they hold their shape during baking.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cookies tough instead of tender.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, then form each portion into a disk and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step allows the butter to firm up again, making it easier to roll out the dough and cut into shapes.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and help them bake evenly.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart.
8. Gather any scraps of dough, reroll, and cut out more shapes until all the dough is used. If the dough becomes too soft to work with, place it back in the refrigerator to firm up.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. Keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, unleash your creativity and decorate the cookies with icing, sprinkles, or any toppings you desire.
These Delicious Cut Out Cookies are not only a delightful treat to enjoy but also a fun activity to share with your loved ones. So, gather your favorite cookie cutters, get creative with the decorations, and let the baking fun begin!
