soft cut out cookie recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best soft cut out cookie recipe

I’m so excited to share this soft cut out cookie recipe with you all. I’ve been making these cookies for years, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends.

The best part is that they’re incredibly easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients. The result is a deliciously soft and chewy cookie that’s perfect for snacking or serving at a party.

I love that these cookies are also relatively healthy, made with wholesome ingredients like butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. The key to making these cookies is to use the right technique – you want to make sure you’re not overmixing the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.

Instead, mix the ingredients just until they come together in a ball, then chill the dough before rolling it out and cutting into shapes. This will give your cookies that perfect soft and chewy texture.

I also like to use a combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar for a richer flavor. And don’t even get me started on the importance of using high-quality vanilla extract – it makes all the difference in the world!

My kids love helping me make these cookies, especially when we’re cutting out fun shapes like hearts or animals. It’s such a great way to spend quality time together as a family.

Soft Cut Out Cookies

4.7 from 838 votes

These soft cut out cookies are perfect for any occasion. They have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and can be cut into any shape you desire.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 24Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 120 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
4Whisk to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer.
6Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
7This will be indicated by a pale yellow color and smooth texture.
8Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
9The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
10Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
11Add milk as needed to achieve a soft dough.
12The dough should be slightly sticky and hold together when pressed.
13Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently a few times.
14Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
15If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour to the surface and rolling pin.
16Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
17Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
18The dough may become slightly warm and soft as you work with it, so work in batches if necessary.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes.
20The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
21Do not overbake, as this will result in a harder cookie.
22Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Rolling pin
Cookie cutters
Baking sheet
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 120 kcal🧈Total Fat: 4g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 80mg🌾Total Carbs: 19g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0.5g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 1.5g

📝Notes

Tips: For a thicker, softer cookie, roll out the dough to 1/3-inch thickness. For a thinner, crispier cookie, roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness.

This soft cut out cookie recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday party or a quiet night at home. They are perfect for family gatherings, and I always get compliments on how soft and delicious they are.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for several days. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the dough and bake the cookies as needed.

For serving, you can arrange them on a platter for a beautiful display, or package them in cute bags for gifts. I love that this recipe is not only delicious but also a fun activity to do with the family.

The soft cut out cookies are a hit with both kids and adults, and I am sure they will become a favorite in your home too. Plus, they are a great way to add a personal touch to any celebration.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Cut Out Cookies

1. Can I use all butter instead of a combination of butter and shortening?

You can use all butter, but the texture might be slightly different. Shortening helps to keep the cookies softer for longer. If you prefer to use all butter, you might want to add a bit of cream cheese to the dough to help maintain the softness.

2. How do I keep the cookies from becoming hard?

To keep the cookies soft, make sure to store them properly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they should stay soft for several days. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold can make them hard.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Roll out the dough, cut out the shapes, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough for about an hour, then transfer the shapes to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake for an extra 2-3 minutes.

4. What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

You can decorate these cookies with royal icing, buttercream, or even a simple glaze. Let the cookies cool completely before decorating. If you’re using royal icing, you can pipe it onto the cookies using a piping bag and tips. For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk or water until you reach your desired consistency, then drizzle it over the cookies.

5. Can I use different flavored extracts?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavored extracts to make these cookies. Try almond, peppermint, or lemon extract in place of the vanilla. You can also add a bit of citrus zest to the dough for a burst of flavor. Just remember to adjust the liquid ingredients slightly if you add any zest.

6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them, as they can become hard. The centers might still look soft, but they will firm up as they cool. For perfectly soft cookies, remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are lightly golden.

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