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Classic Soft Cut Out Sugar Cookies That Hold Their Shape

A stack of soft sugar cookie rounds dusted heavily with powdered sugar, one cookie has a bite taken out showing the soft interior.
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Make the best sugar cookies for decorating. This easy, buttery recipe yields soft, chewy cut out sugar cookies that hold their shape perfectly after baking, making them ideal for holidays or any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set the dry ingredients aside.
  2. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until just combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a flat disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. Chilling is key for cookies that hold their shape.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  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.
  8. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.
  9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely set and lightly golden. For thicker cookies, bake closer to 10 minutes.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Notes

  • For the best cut-out results, chill the dough thoroughly. If your kitchen is warm, chill the rolled-out dough on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before baking.
  • Use both vanilla and almond extract for a classic, complex flavor profile.
  • These cookies pair well with simple royal icing or buttercream frosting for decorating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://seventhflavour.com/best-sugar-cookie-soft-cut-out-recipe/