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Sugar Cookie Cutouts

Close-up of sugar cookie cutouts on a clean white background with bright lighting.

Classic sugar cookie cutouts that are soft, buttery, and perfect for decorating. These cookies hold their shape well and are ideal for holiday or special occasion cookie decorating.

Ingredients

Scale

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 to 4 tablespoons milk

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough is soft but not sticky.
Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Repeat with the second portion of dough.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Decorate as desired once cooled.