Cutout Sugar Cookies – Soft, Buttery & Perfect for Christmas Decorating

There’s something magical about rolling out a sheet of sugar cookie dough while Christmas music hums in the background. The smell of butter and vanilla fills the kitchen, and before long, those perfectly cut stars and snowflakes bake into tender, golden cookies ready for icing. These cutout sugar cookies are soft inside, clean-edged outside, and made for joyful decorating moments.

Why You’ll Love These Cutout Sugar Cookies

These cookies bake up soft and tender without losing their shape. The dough rolls smoothly, doesn’t crack, and holds clean edges even after baking. They’re buttery, lightly sweet, and ready for royal icing, buttercream, or just a sprinkle of sugar. Whether you’re baking with kids or preparing gifts, this recipe works beautifully every time.

Key Ingredients and What They Do

Butter and Sugar

Creaming butter and sugar adds air to the dough, creating a light, tender bite. The butter’s richness gives flavor depth, while sugar locks in moisture and sweetness.

Vanilla, Almond & Salt

Vanilla brings warmth, almond extract adds a subtle festive aroma, and salt balances it all. Together, they make the flavor round and not overly sweet.

Eggs and Milk

The egg and extra yolk add structure and richness. Milk keeps the dough soft and helps everything blend evenly.

Flour, Cornstarch & Powdered Milk

Flour gives the dough its base, while cornstarch ensures a soft, smooth texture. Powdered milk enhances flavor and helps cookies stay pale and delicate while baking.

How to Make Cutout Sugar Cookies (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1 – Prepare and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line light-colored baking sheets with parchment paper for even browning.

Step 2 – Cream Butter and Sugar

Beat 1¼ cups butter with 1 cup sugar for about 2–3 minutes until pale and fluffy. This step creates the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3 – Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in salt, vanilla extract, optional almond extract, egg, egg yolk, and milk. Combine just until smooth to keep the dough tender.

Step 4 – Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and powdered milk in a separate bowl. Gradually mix into the butter mixture until the dough forms and no dry streaks remain.

Step 5 – Roll and Cut

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to ⅓ inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters into festive shapes.

Step 6 – Chill (Optional but Recommended)

Place cutouts in the freezer for 15–30 minutes before baking. This helps them keep sharp edges and prevents spreading.

Step 7 – Bake and Cool

Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are set and bottoms are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then move to a rack.
Yield varies with cutter size. Nutrition values are approximate but balanced for a buttery treat.

Decorating Ideas for Every Occasion

Decorate with royal icing for that classic Christmas look, or use buttercream for a soft, creamy finish. Sprinkle colored sugar for sparkle, or drizzle with melted chocolate. For other celebrations, switch colors—red, white, and blue for summer parties, or pastel tones for spring. Add edible glitter for festive shine.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cutout Cookies

– Use butter that’s firm but slightly cool.
– Measure flour accurately to prevent dry dough.
– Chill dough if it feels warm.
– Use light baking sheets for even baking.
– Roll dough evenly to ⅓ inch for consistent results.
– Remove cookies before they brown for a soft, delicate texture.

Storage, Make-Ahead & Freezing Guide

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. You can refrigerate dough for 3 days or freeze for later. If the dough feels dry after freezing, add a few drops of milk while re-rolling. Baked cookies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months just thaw before decorating.

Troubleshooting – Why Are My Cookies Spreading or Losing Shape?

If cookies spread, the dough may be too warm or the butter too soft. Try chilling longer before baking. Too much flour can also change texture, while too little can cause spreading. Always roll evenly and use parchment-lined light pans for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (Cutout Sugar Cookies)

More Such Recipes

• chewy pumpkin cookies perfect for cozy baking
• soft pumpkin snickerdoodles with warm spices
• peppermint bark brownies for festive flavor
• patriotic sugar cookie bars for holidays and events
• pistachio pudding cookies with a unique twist
• chocolate crinkle cookies with a classic holiday look
• butter pecan cookies with rich nutty flavor

Conclusion or Final Thoughts

These cutout sugar cookies capture everything lovely about holiday baking: a soft crumb, buttery flavor, and endless decorating fun. They stay tender for days, making them perfect for gifting or sharing at cookie swaps. Gather your cutters, turn up your favorite carols, and fill your kitchen with the scent of Christmas joy. You can find more holiday inspiration on Pinterest and connect with the community on Facebook.

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