This sugar cookie recipe is my ultimate favorite, perfect for creating delightful dessert not just for Christmas but for any occasion. Just like with any cut-out cookies, decorating them requires some time and effort, but the end result is absolutely stunning. This year, I decided to get a bit creative by experimenting with the dough, adding vibrant food coloring. The cookies turned out exceptionally beautiful, adding an extra touch of magic to the festivities.
Cut out sugar cookies recipe
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Food coloring (gel or liquid), assorted colors
For the frosting:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Make the colored cookie dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and then add the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Divide the dough into smaller portions, depending on how many colors you want. Keep one portion plain if desired.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion of dough, kneading until the color is evenly distributed and the desired intensity is achieved. You can experiment with different colors to create a vibrant assortment of cookie dough.
- Shape each colored dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or until firm).
2. Bake the cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each colored disk of dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
- Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the frosting:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- If desired, add food coloring to achieve your desired colors.
4. Decorate the cookies:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a thin layer of frosting onto each cookie using a knife or offset spatula.
- Allow the frosting to set before serving or storing the cookies in an airtight container.
