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The Best Soft Cut-Out Sugar Cookie Recipe That Holds Its Shape

A stack of soft, round sugar cookie treats coated in sparkling sugar, illuminated by window light.
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A reliable recipe for soft, chewy sugar cookies that maintain their shape well after baking, perfect for cutting out and decorating.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. For soft cookies, err on the side of underbaking slightly.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Notes

  • For best shape retention, chill the cut-out shapes on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before placing them in the oven.
  • If you prefer a firmer cookie for stacking, bake for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Nutrition

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