Description

Reliable, soft-in-the-middle sugar cookies that hold their shape perfectly for decorating. This recipe uses a specific ratio of butter to flour and chilling techniques to prevent spreading.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups (300g) granulated white sugar
2 large egg yolks
3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through.
Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, then add the vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days).
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters, pressing straight down without twisting. Re-roll scraps gently.
Place cookies on baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are barely set and lightly golden.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before icing.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing spreading. Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to avoid altering dough consistency. Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft. For gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 2-
Calories: 95
Sugar: 7
Sodium: 45
Fat: 4
Saturated Fat: 2.5
Carbohydrates: 13
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 1

Keywords: sugar cookies, holiday baking, Christmas cookies, easy cookie recipe, decorated cookies, freeze dough