Sugar Cut Out Cookies

Delightful sugar cookies that hold their shape beautifully, perfect for decorating or enjoying fresh from the oven.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 10

Total Time 25

Servings: 24 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Cookie Dough Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened to room temperature Creamy and rich, providing that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
1 cup sugar, granulated Adds sweetness and contributes to the signature crispness.
1 large egg Adds moisture and binding, enriching the dough.
1-2 tsp lemon zest The zest of half a lemon offers a fresh, citrusy aroma.
1 tsp baking powder Helps the cookies rise slightly.
1 tsp vanilla extract Aromatic and warm, enhancing the overall sweetness.
3 cups flour Essential for structure, key to forming cutouts.
1/2 tsp salt Balances flavor and enhances all ingredients.

Preparation

Cream the butter and sugar together in a stand mixer for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the egg, lemon zest, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Beat for another 2 minutes until creamy.
Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing on low speed until combined. If the dough appears crumbly, add a teaspoon of water and press it into two balls.

Shaping

Roll out one of the dough balls on a floured surface to your preferred thickness.
Use cookie cutters to create shapes from the rolled dough and place them on a lined baking sheet.

Chilling and Baking

Chill the cookies in the freezer for about 10 minutes to help maintain their shape.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.

Cooling

Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For perfectly shaped cookies, chill the dough and the cut-out shapes before baking. Add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or nuts for extra flavor.