Rolled Sugar Cookies 🎄🍪💖

Rolled sugar cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a tradition, an art form, and a delicious way to spread joy. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a birthday, or just because, these cookies are a classic that everyone can enjoy. Their buttery sweetness and versatility make them the perfect base for creative decorations, and they’re as much fun to make as they are to eat.

This recipe is foolproof, yielding cookies that are soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and beautifully shaped. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the process of making perfect rolled sugar cookies, decorating tips, variations, storage tips, and answering all your burning questions.

Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Ingredients for Rolled Sugar Cookies

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (substitute with almond extract for a nutty twist)
2 teaspoons baking powder
3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Icing (Optional):

2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Food coloring (gel or liquid)
Sprinkles, edible glitter, or sanding sugar for decoration

Tools You’ll Need:

Rolling pin
Cookie cutters (holiday shapes like stars, trees, or snowflakes are popular!)
Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
Cooling rack

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Creating the perfect sugar cookie dough is essential for consistent results:

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). This step incorporates air, which will help your cookies bake evenly.
Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, beating until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, a little at a time, until the dough comes together.
Divide and Chill: Divide the dough into two portions. Flatten each into a disc, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling ensures the dough firms up, preventing spreading during baking.

Step 2: Roll and Cut the Dough

Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Roll It Out: Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin. Roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. If you prefer softer cookies, roll slightly thicker.
Cut Shapes: Use your favorite cookie cutters to create fun shapes. Dip the cutters in flour if they stick to the dough. Arrange the shapes on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 7-9 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just starting to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the centers soft.
Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.

Step 4: Decorate

Decorating rolled sugar cookies is a fun, creative process:

Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (for thinner icing) or powdered sugar (for thicker icing).
Color the Icing: Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring as desired. Gel food coloring is ideal for vibrant hues without altering the consistency.
Decorate: Use piping bags, squeeze bottles, or a small spoon to apply the icing. While the icing is still wet, sprinkle on decorations like sanding sugar, sprinkles, or edible glitter. Allow the icing to set completely before stacking the cookies.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 36 medium-sized cookies (depending on the size of your cookie cutters).
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling time).
Cook Time: 7-9 minutes per batch.
Total Time: Approximately 1.5-2 hours, including decoration.

Why These Cookies Are Perfect

Crisp Edges, Soft Centers: The balance between buttery richness and a hint of sweetness creates a cookie that is satisfying without being overly sweet.
Easy to Work With: This dough holds its shape beautifully, making it ideal for intricate cutters.
Versatile Base: The flavor is simple, providing a blank canvas for endless customization.

For more on perfect cookie baking techniques, check out this guide on cookie baking tips.

Variations

Rolled sugar cookies are wonderfully adaptable! Here are some ways to switch things up:

1. Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.

2. Citrus Zest Addition

Add 1 teaspoon of finely grated lemon, lime, or orange zest to the dough for a bright, zesty twist.

3. Chocolate Sugar Cookies

Replace 1/4 cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey variation.

4. Spiced Holiday Cookies

Add 1/2 teaspoon each of ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor reminiscent of the holidays.

5. Vegan Sugar Cookies

Use a plant-based butter and substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water).

Storage and Reheating

Storing the Cookies

At Room Temperature: Store undecorated or decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
In the Refrigerator: Extend their shelf life to 2 weeks by storing in a sealed container in the fridge.

Freezing Tips

Dough: Wrap raw cookie dough in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling out.
Baked Cookies: Freeze undecorated cookies between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Suggestions

To revive that fresh-from-the-oven taste, place cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes.

Top 10 FAQs About Rolled Sugar Cookies

Why does my dough stick to the rolling pin?
Ensure your dough is properly chilled, and dust your rolling pin and work surface lightly with flour.
Can I skip chilling the dough?
Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading and losing their shape.
How can I make the cookies softer?
Roll the dough slightly thicker (around 3/8 inch) and bake for the minimum time.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.
How do I prevent spreading?
Avoid overmixing the dough and ensure it’s well chilled before baking.
What’s the best icing for decorating?
Royal icing is a popular choice for intricate designs, while powdered sugar icing is simpler and quicker.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
Why did my cookies come out dry?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Bake until the edges are just set and lightly golden.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your mixer can handle the larger volume of dough.
Can I add flavors like peppermint or almond?
Yes! Swap or combine vanilla extract with other extracts like almond, peppermint, or even coconut for unique flavors.

Conclusion

Rolled sugar cookies are a timeless treat that bring people together. From their simple yet satisfying flavor to their endless decorating possibilities, they’re perfect for every occasion. Whether you enjoy baking alone or with loved ones, this recipe ensures beautiful, delicious cookies every time.

So grab your rolling pin, cookie cutters, and some sprinkles, and start creating sweet memories! Share your favorite designs or tips in the comments below. And for more holiday baking inspiration, don’t miss these cookie decorating ideas.

Happy baking! 🎄🍪💖