Description
Old fashioned rolled sugar cookies are a timeless classic that have delighted taste buds for generations. Originating from simple home kitchens, these cookies boast a delicate balance of buttery richness and subtle sweetness. With crisp edges and soft, tender centers, they’re perfect for any occasion—from everyday treats to festive holiday delights. Their versatile dough is easy to work with, allowing you to roll and cut it into various shapes, making them a favorite for both baking novices and seasoned pros.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla:
- Add 1 large egg to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until evenly mixed.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed.
- Continue mixing until the dough starts to come together and no dry flour remains. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Divide and Chill the Dough:
- Divide the dough into two equal portions.
- Flatten each portion into a disk shape and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the dough disks for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Remove one dough disk from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking.
- Roll the dough evenly to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- Cut Out Cookies:
- Use cookie cutters of your choice to cut out shapes from the rolled dough.
- Place the cut-out cookies about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the Cookies:
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden.
- For even baking, rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time if necessary.
- Cool the Cookies:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
- Repeat with Remaining Dough:
- Gather any leftover dough scraps, re-roll them, and continue cutting out shapes.
- Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the second dough disk.
- Decorate as Desired:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate them with icing, sprinkles, or any other desired toppings.
- Enjoy your homemade old fashioned rolled sugar cookies!