The sweet and tender world of sugar cookies has captured the hearts of many, and for good reason. These classic treats are a staple at any holiday gathering or special occasion, and can be easily dressed up with creative decorations and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, we’ve got 18 simple yet delicious sugar cookie recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic vanilla to more adventurous flavor combinations like lemon and almond, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy-to-make cut-out sugar cookies.
Classic Vanilla Cut Out Sugar Cookies
A timeless favorite, these classic sugar cookies are a staple of any baking repertoire. With their tender texture and sweet vanilla flavor, they’re perfect for snacking or decorating.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or sugar for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cutouts on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Lemon Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your day with these tender and citrusy treats that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Flour Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These tender and crumbly sugar cookies use almond flour as a game-changer, providing a delicate nutty flavor and texture. Perfect for special occasions or everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Brown Butter Cut Out Sugar Cookies
A classic sugar cookie recipe gets a rich boost from brown butter, creating a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the brown butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
Cooking Time:
– Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
– Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
Treat your loved ones to a sweet surprise with these delicious vegan cut out sugar cookies, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup vegan butter (softened), such as Earth Balance
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg replacement, such as flaxseed or Ener-G Egg Replacer
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and oats.
3. In a large bowl, cream together maple syrup and vegan butter until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and egg replacement; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious vegan cut out sugar cookies!
Gluten-Free Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Sweeten up your holiday season with these soft, chewy, and deliciously gluten-free sugar cookies that are perfect for cutting out shapes. This easy-to-make recipe yields a batch of tender treats that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into two portions. Roll out each portion on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters or a glass. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Dipped Cut Out Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies get a luxurious twist with a velvety chocolate coating, perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before dipping in melted chocolate.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Royal Icing Decorated Sugar Cookies
Elevate your baking game with this simple recipe for soft, chewy sugar cookies topped with a delicate royal icing glaze. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Royal Icing (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Royal Icing Recipe:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 Tbsp meringue powder
– 2 Tbsp water
– Food coloring (optional)
Combine ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed.
Peppermint Frosted Sugar Cookies
These festive cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year. With their crumbly texture, bright green color, and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Green food coloring (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add peppermint extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting with powdered sugar and peppermint extract.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Orange Zest Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your holiday baking with these vibrant orange-scented sugar cookies, perfect for decorating and sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp orange zest
– 1 tbsp orange juice
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and orange zest.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in orange juice.
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Spiced Sugar Cookies
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of sweetness, making them perfect for snacking or sharing. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Glazed Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Maple Glazed Cut Out Sugar Cookies Recipe
These classic sugar cookies get a sweet and tangy twist with a rich maple glaze. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a special dessert for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Maple glaze ingredients: 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with maple syrup and powdered sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Funfetti Sprinkle Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are elevated to new heights with the addition of colorful funfetti sprinkles, making them perfect for birthday parties, special occasions, or just because.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Funfetti sprinkles (1-2 tbsp)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lavender Infused Sugar Cookies
Elevate your baking game with these delightful lavender infused sugar cookies, perfect for a sweet treat or gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon lavender extract
– 1 cup dried lavender buds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until light and fluffy. Add lavender extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in dried lavender buds.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Get ready to spice up your holiday baking with these soft, chewy, and oh-so-flavorful Pumpkin Spice Cut Out Sugar Cookies. Perfect for a Thanksgiving or fall-themed party, these cookies are sure to be a hit with their warm pumpkin flavor and hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Coconut Flour Sugar Cookies
These chewy cookies are a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions, using coconut flour and sugar to create a sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coconut flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Eggless Cut Out Sugar Cookies
This recipe makes a batch of tender and delicious sugar cookies that are perfect for snacking or decorating. With no eggs required, these cookies are a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup (180g) granulated sugar
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Gradually add the milk and mix until smooth.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shortbread Style Sugar Cookies
Shortbread Style Sugar Cookies Recipe
A classic cookie recipe with a buttery twist, these shortbread-style sugar cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a crumbly texture and subtle sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sprinkles or decorations (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with these 18 simple and delicious cut-out sugar cookies! From classic vanilla to vegan and gluten-free options, we’ve got you covered. Discover how to make soft and chewy lemon sugar cookies, almond flour cut-outs, and brown butter treats. Plus, find inspiration for festive flavors like peppermint frosted, orange zest, and pumpkin spice. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.