These delightful frosted sugar cookie cutouts are a classic treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their soft, buttery texture and sweet frosting, they are perfect for decorating during holidays or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize the shapes and colors, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This sugar cookie recipe is not only easy to follow but also yields delicious results every time. The cookies are tender and flavorful, while the frosting adds a creamy sweetness that perfectly complements the cookie’s texture. Additionally, the fun of cutting out shapes and decorating them makes this a fantastic activity for family gatherings or parties. You can let your creativity shine with various toppings, sprinkles, and colors.
Introduction
Sugar cookies are a timeless favorite, cherished for their simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, these frosted sugar cookie cutouts are sure to impress. The process of making these cookies is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to bond with family and friends. The soft, pillowy texture of the cookies combined with a rich, creamy frosting makes for a delightful experience. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Ingredients:
For the cookies:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (170 grams), at room temperature
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (112 grams)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (270 grams)
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon cream of tartar
For the frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (113 grams), softened to room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar (450 grams), sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- Food coloring (optional)
- Sprinkles (optional)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, or using a hand-held mixer, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the egg to the mixture and mix until just combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar.
Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the mixer, mixing on low speed until combined. The mixture may appear crumbly at first, but it will come together into a thick dough.
Step 5: Turn the dough out onto a clean surface and knead it gently until it forms a cohesive disk. Roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick (up to ½ inch for thicker cookies), adding more flour to your work surface as needed to prevent sticking. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and transfer them to the prepared sheet pan, leaving space between each cookie.
If desired, freeze the cookies on the pan for 15 minutes to help maintain their shape while baking.
Baking Note:
Bake the cookies until they are puffed and the tops look dry, about 8-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as baking time will vary based on cookie size. Once baked, let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
To Make the Frosting:
In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, a pinch of salt, and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream on medium speed until combined. Increase the speed to high and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Add food coloring if desired, and then frost the cooled cookies. Decorate with sprinkles or any other toppings you prefer.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Arrange the frosted cookies on a decorative platter or cake stand for a beautiful display. You can also use themed decorations based on the occasion—such as holiday-themed sprinkles or edible glitter for birthdays.
Tips:
- For almond-flavored sugar cookies, substitute 1 teaspoon of almond extract for the vanilla extract in the cookie dough and adjust the frosting accordingly.
- To ensure perfect baking, consider baking one test cookie first. This way, you can adjust the baking time for the remaining cookies based on your oven’s performance.
- Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Time Required:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Baking Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 262 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Sodium: 101 mg
Conclusion
These frosted sugar cookie cutouts are not just a treat; they are an experience that brings joy and creativity into your kitchen. With their soft texture and sweet frosting, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a party, or just indulging in a sweet moment, these cookies will delight everyone. So gather your loved ones, get baking, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade sugar cookies!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- While you can use margarine, the flavor and texture may differ. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best results.
- How can I store leftover cookies?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before rolling out.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream in the frosting?
- You can use milk or half-and-half, but the frosting may not be as rich and creamy.
- Are these cookies suitable for decorating?
- Absolutely! These cookies are perfect for decorating, and the soft texture holds up well with various toppings and designs.
