This no-fail recipe for sugar cookies will solve all your holiday cookie exchange problems. This versatile recipe is easy to make and cut-out. For answers to all your sugar cookie decorating uestions, go to our How to decorate your sugar cookies like a pro guide.
Sugar Cookies
A staple at any holiday celebration, these buttery, crisp cookies are as much a treat to eat as they are to make. Use any shaped cut out you like and all the whimsy you can muster to decorate.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt. Set aside.
- In separate large bowl, using electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter with granulated sugar until creamy and light, about 3 minutes. Beat in egg and vanilla, scraping bottom and side, until combined.
- Beat in half the flour mixture on low speed, then beat in remaining half.
- Divide dough into quarters. Flatten each quarter into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until chilled, about 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside.
- On lightly floured work surface, roll out dough into ¼-inch thickness; using cookie cutters, cut into desired shapes. Arrange on prepared sheets.
- Bake 1 sheet at a time until edges are pale golden, about 10 minutes. Let cool on rack.
- Ice and decorate as desired.
