Rolled Sugar Cookies

Description of this recipe
These delightful rolled sugar cookies are a festive treat that is perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of cocoa. With their soft texture and sweet flavor, they can be shaped into any design you desire, making them a versatile addition to your holiday baking repertoire.

Why you will love this recipe
This rolled sugar cookie recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for creativity with decorations and shapes. The buttery flavor combined with the sweetness of sugar makes them irresistible. Plus, they are perfect for decorating with your favorite icing and sprinkles, making them a fun activity for families and friends during the holiday season.

Introduction

The holiday season brings with it a sense of warmth, joy, and a spirit of giving. One of the most cherished traditions during this time is baking cookies. Among the myriad of cookie recipes available, rolled sugar cookies stand out for their versatility and festive appeal. Their soft, buttery texture and the ability to cut them into various shapes make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking to create whimsical holiday shapes or classic rounds, this recipe will guide you through the process of making delicious rolled sugar cookies that are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, resulting in a tender cookie.

Step 2: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. The eggs add richness and moisture to the cookies, while the vanilla enhances their flavor.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the cookies rise properly.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: If you wish to use food coloring, divide the dough into separate portions and add food coloring to each portion. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. This is a fun way to create colorful cookies for the holidays!

Step 6: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out.

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, usually about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 9: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets. If using sprinkles, decorate the cookies as desired before baking.

Step 10: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Step 11: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

These rolled sugar cookies are perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Consider serving them with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or as part of a festive dessert platter. For an extra touch, you can also ice them with royal icing or decorate them with colored sugar for a festive flair.

Tips:

  • Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s crucial for achieving the right texture and making the dough easier to work with.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add almond extract or lemon zest for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
  • Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
  • Decorating: Get creative with your decorations! Use icing, edible glitter, or themed sprinkles to make your cookies stand out.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Chill Time:

1 hour

Baking Time:

8-10 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per cookie):

  • Calories: 100 kcal
  • Protein: 1g
  • Sodium: 50mg

Conclusion

Baking rolled sugar cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. This recipe not only yields delicious cookies but also provides an opportunity for creativity and fun in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking alone or with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring joy and sweetness into your home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the holiday baking begin!

Questions and Answers about this Recipe

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Unsalted butter is recommended for the best results.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

3. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.

4. What is the best way to decorate these cookies?
Royal icing is a popular choice for decorating sugar cookies. You can also use fondant, colored sugar, or even melted chocolate for a fun twist.

5. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden. They may seem soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these delicious rolled sugar cookies, and may your holiday season be filled with sweetness and joy!

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