Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. If using optional flavorings like almond extract or lemon zest, add them at this stage.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue until the dough comes together and forms a soft, pliable consistency.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

  1. Divide the dough into two portions. Flatten each portion into a disc and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
  2. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents the dough from sticking while rolling and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
  3. Roll out one portion of dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. The even thickness ensures the cookies bake uniformly.

Step 4: Cut the Cookies

  1. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Dip the cutters in flour if they stick.
  2. Transfer the shapes to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  3. Gather the scraps, re-roll the dough, and cut more shapes until all the dough is used.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
  2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Decorate the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cooled, you can decorate them with your favorite toppings. Here are some popular options:

  • Royal Icing: Pipe intricate designs or flood the surface for a smooth, professional finish.
  • Buttercream Frosting: Spread or pipe colorful swirls and patterns.
  • Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles while the icing is still wet for a playful touch.
  • Edible Markers: Draw designs directly onto the cookies with food-safe pens.

Tips for Perfect Rolled Sugar Cookies:

  1. Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilled dough is easier to work with and ensures the cookies don’t spread during baking.
  2. Work Quickly: Keep one portion of dough in the fridge while working with the other to maintain its firmness.
  3. Invest in Quality Cutters: Sharp, sturdy cookie cutters make cleaner shapes and are easier to use.
  4. Make Ahead: The dough can be made and refrigerated up to 3 days in advance or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling.
  5. Customize the Flavor: Experiment with extracts like peppermint or spices like nutmeg to match the theme of your cookies.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Rolled sugar cookies are a true crowd-pleaser. They’re simple enough to make with kids and elegant enough to serve at a special occasion.