The holiday season is just around the corner, and with it comes a plethora of opportunities to get creative in the kitchen. What’s more festive than a batch of fresh-baked cut-out sugar cookies? These classic treats are a staple of any holiday gathering, and when done right, can be both delicious and visually stunning. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering easy cut-out sugar cookie recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic vanilla and lemon glaze to more unique flavor combinations like almond flavored, chocolate dipped, and even pumpkin spice, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Classic Vanilla Cut Out Sugar Cookies
A classic favorite, these vanilla sugar cookies are a staple for any occasion. With their tender texture and sweet flavor, they’re perfect for decorating or enjoying plain.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Glazed Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy sugar cookies, infused with a burst of citrus flavor from a simple lemon glaze. Perfect for snacking or decorating, this recipe is a classic twist on the traditional cut-out cookie.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Mix powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Almond Flavored Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a delightful twist with the addition of almond extract and chopped almonds. Perfect for snacking or decorating, these tender treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp almond extract
– Chopped almonds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and almond extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these classic cookies dipped in rich chocolate! Perfect for special occasions or just because, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Cinnamon Spiced Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the cozy warmth of cinnamon, making them perfect for a family gathering or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Colored sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peppermint Frosted Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your holiday gathering with these refreshing Peppermint Frosted Cut Out Sugar Cookies. A classic favorite, elevated by the invigorating flavor of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– Colored sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decoration (optional)
– Peppermint frosting (recipe below)
Peppermint Frosting:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
– 2-3 drops green food coloring
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with Peppermint Frosting.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Butter Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Elevate your sugar cookie game with the deep, nutty flavor of browned butter! This recipe yields soft, chewy cookies with a caramel-like taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Salt, to taste
– Colored sugar or sprinkles, for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in granulated sugar and brown sugar until dissolved.
4. Let cool slightly before whisking in eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until combined.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Orange Zest Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your classic sugar cookies by incorporating the warmth of orange zest. Perfect for any occasion, these cut-out cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and mix well.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your cookie game with these scrumptious sugar cookies glazed with a hint of maple syrup. Perfect for snacking, gift-giving, or as a sweet addition to any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Maple syrup (about 2 tbsp)
– Colored sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Funfetti Sprinkled Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These Funfetti Sprinkled Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, adding a pop of color and whimsy to your celebrations. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these adorable cookies that will bring joy to both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Funfetti sprinkles for decorating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before decorating with Funfetti sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Infused Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Coconut Infused Cut Out Sugar Cookies: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Favorite!
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the sweet and creamy flavor of coconut, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Colored sprinkles or chopped pecans for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in shredded coconut.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24-30 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Get into the autumn spirit with these soft, chewy, and deliciously spiced sugar cookies. Perfect for a Halloween party or a cozy fall gathering, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and pumpkin puree.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Divide dough into 2-3 portions, depending on desired thickness for cut-outs.
6. Roll out each portion on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut out shapes with a cookie cutter and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Gingerbread Inspired Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These soft-baked sugar cookies are infused with the warm, spicy flavors of ginger and cinnamon, reminiscent of traditional gingerbread. Perfect for snacking or decorating, these cut-out cookies are a holiday classic.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Water (as needed)
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Raspberry Jam Filled Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Add a burst of flavor to your favorite sugar cookies with this recipe that combines the classic cookie with a sweet and tangy raspberry jam filling. Perfect for parties, special occasions, or just a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Raspberry jam (about 1/2 cup)
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut out shapes with a cookie cutter.
7. Place a small spoonful of raspberry jam in the center of each cookie.
8. Fold the dough over the jam to form a triangle or other desired shape.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack before decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Experience the perfect fusion of Japanese green tea culture and classic sugar cookies with this delightful recipe. The subtle bitterness of matcha green tea perfectly balances the sweetness of these tender cut-out cookies.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup matcha green tea powder
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add matcha green tea powder and mix well.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Red Velvet Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These classic cut-out sugar cookies get a romantic twist with the addition of red velvet flavoring, giving them a unique and delicious spin. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any other occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup red velvet flavoring
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add red velvet flavoring and mix until combined.
4. Beat in the egg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramel Drizzled Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a sweet upgrade with a rich caramel drizzle and crisp cut-out shapes. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce and dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chai Spiced Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Elevate your holiday baking with these aromatic cookies infused with the comforting flavors of chai spices. Perfect for a festive gathering or as a thoughtful gift, these tender cut-outs are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black tea leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon chai spice mix)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, chai spices, and tea leaves (or spice mix).
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Summary
Get ready to deck the halls with these 18 delicious and easy cut-out sugar cookie recipes perfect for the holiday season! From classic vanilla to unique flavors like matcha green tea and chai spiced, there’s something for everyone. Try adding a twist with lemon glaze, almond flavor, or chocolate dipping. Or, go traditional with cinnamon spice, pumpkin spice, or gingerbread-inspired cookies. And don’t forget the funfetti sprinkles and coconut infused treats! With these recipes, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
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