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Perfect Decorated Sugar Cookies

Close-up of vibrantly decorated sugar cookies featuring intricate floral patterns in pink, orange, and yellow icing.
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A reliable sugar cookie dough recipe that holds its shape for cut-outs, paired with a simple icing for decorating. Perfect for holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting
  • For the Icing:
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk or water
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Food coloring (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out desired shapes using cookie cutters.
  8. Carefully transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look pale.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. While the cookies cool, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more liquid; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
  12. Divide the icing into bowls and add food coloring if desired.
  13. Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with the icing and sprinkles. Let the icing set completely before storing or serving.

Notes

  • For best results, chill the dough thoroughly. This prevents spreading during baking.
  • Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking times.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies pale and tender.
  • Adjust icing consistency by adding more liquid or powdered sugar as needed.
  • Royal icing can be used for a harder, more durable finish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipestokeep.com/decorated-sugar-cookies-recipe/