Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile and Customizable: Ideal for various occasions, these cookies can be cut into different shapes and decorated with icing or sprinkles to suit any theme.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow.
- Consistent Results: The dough is easy to work with, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape during baking.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Directions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
- Bake: Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Cool and Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy as is.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 36 cookies, depending on the size of your cookie cutters.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 hour or overnight
- Baking Time: 6 to 8 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, including chilling time
Variations
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest to the dough for a unique twist.
- Colorful Cookies: Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top of the cookies for added visual appeal.
- Icing Options: Decorate with royal icing, glaze, or buttercream frosting to suit your taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Freezing: Freeze undecorated cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months.
- Reheating: If frozen, thaw cookies at room temperature before decorating or serving.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cookies.
How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid overworking the dough to maintain its structure.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days before rolling out and baking.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the cookie cutters?
Lightly flour the cookie cutters before each use to prevent sticking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser texture.
How do I achieve a crispier cookie?
Bake the cookies slightly longer, but monitor them closely to prevent overbaking.
Can I add sprinkles to the dough?
Yes, you can mix sprinkles into the dough before rolling it out for added color and texture.
How do I make the cookies softer?
Bake the cookies for a shorter time and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.
How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too hard?
Avoid overbaking and store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
Conclusion
These rolled sugar cookies are a timeless treat that combines simplicity with versatility. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe offers a reliable and delicious outcome every time. Enjoy them plain or decorated to suit your personal taste.
Print
The Best Rolled Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: Approximately 36 cookies, depending on cutter size
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These The Best Rolled Sugar Cookies are a timeless treat, featuring crisp edges and soft centers that make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re decorating them for the holidays or enjoying them as-is, these cookies are easy to make and offer consistently delicious results.
Ingredients
- Butter: 1 cup, softened
- White sugar: 1 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- All-purpose flour: 2 ½ cups
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Dough – In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
2️⃣ Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
3️⃣ Chill the Dough – Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This step helps prevent spreading during baking.
4️⃣ Preheat the Oven – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
5️⃣ Roll Out the Dough – On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut into your desired shapes.
6️⃣ Bake – Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 1 inch apart. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
7️⃣ Cool and Decorate – Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy plain.
Notes
✅ Flavor Enhancements – Add 1 teaspoon of almond extract or lemon zest for extra flavor.
✅ Colorful Cookies – Before baking, sprinkle colored sugar or nonpareils on top for a fun, vibrant look.
✅ Icing Options – Decorate with royal icing, glaze, or buttercream frosting for a festive touch.
- Prep Time: 10 minute
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
