Description
These buttery, tender Christmas cut-out sugar cookies are the perfect canvas for your holiday decorating. Formulated to hold their shape during baking, they feature a crisp, clean edge and a soft center. Infused with pure vanilla bean paste and a hint of almond extract, they offer a sophisticated flavor profile. Perfect for creating intricate snowflake or tree shapes, these cookies are a reliable staple for your seasonal baking traditions.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Cream the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
Cut into desired festive shapes and place onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are just set but not browned.
Cool completely on a wire rack before decorating with royal icing.
Notes
Ensure your butter is at room temperature for proper creaming. The chilling step is mandatory to prevent the cookies from spreading. Use a spoon-and-level method to measure the flour accurately. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg