There’s something magical about rolling out cookie dough—the subtle dusting of flour on your hands, the anticipation of warm, golden cookies fresh from the oven.
Rolled sugar cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a canvas for creativity. With crisp edges, buttery sweetness, and enough structure to hold intricate shapes, they’re perfect for decorating with royal icing, festive sprinkles, or even a simple glaze.
I personally pair these with Cream Cheese Cinnamon Crescents for an indulgent dessert spread that feels bakery-worthy.
This recipe became a family tradition one snowy December afternoon when, armed with cookie cutters and determination, I discovered the trick: chilling the dough. It’s the secret to clean lines and no spreading, even for the most detailed designs.
Custom-decorated cookies are a $4 billion industry, and it’s no wonder why. These cookies are your gateway to making bakery-quality creations right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Be Hooked
- Endless Creativity: Decorating these cookies became my favorite way to relax after a busy week. The possibilities are infinite, and you’ll feel like an artist in the kitchen.
- A Proven Crowd-Pleaser: I’ve taken these to countless gatherings, and they always steal the spotlight. Expect requests for the recipe.
- Customizable Texture: Want them softer? Bake a little less. Love a crisp snap? Roll them thinner. This recipe adapts to your mood.
- Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in a clear bag with a ribbon, these cookies are as thoughtful as they are delicious.
- Kids Love Them: My niece spent hours decorating last Christmas—it’s an activity and dessert in one!
Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe
Rolled sugar cookies are buttery, sweet, and perfect for cutting into festive shapes. Their crisp edges and sturdy texture make them ideal for decorating with icing, sprinkles, or glazes. A classic treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
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Calories: 111.3kcal
Servings: 4
Equipment
- kitchenaid mixer
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Baking sheet
- Rolling Pin
- Parchment Paper
- Christmas Cookie Cutters
- gel food coloring
Ingredients
Sugar Cookies:
- 1 cup salted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour*
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
Sugar Cookie Frosting
- 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 2 ½ Tablespoons light corn syrup
- 3-4 Tablespoons milk room temperature
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Cream butter and sugar in a mixer, then mix in vanilla and eggs until smooth. Add flour, baking powder, and salt, and blend until combined.
- Divide and Wrap: Split the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a flat disc, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill: Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll and Cut: Let one dough disc sit for 5 minutes, roll it out on a floured surface to ¼” or ½” thickness, and cut out shapes using cookie cutters.
- Re-roll Scraps: Gather and re-roll leftover dough up to two more times.
- Bake: Place cookies 1″ apart on sheets, brush with milk or cream if adding sprinkles, and bake for 9–10 minutes. Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Decorate: Once completely cooled, decorate with frosting or sprinkles, and let them set before serving or storing.
Nutrition
Calories: 111.3kcal | Carbohydrates: 13.2g | Protein: 1.4g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3.7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.6g | Cholesterol: 27.1mg | Sodium: 89.9mg | Potassium: 19mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 6.3g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 0.4mg
Variations that will help you customize your dish!
1. Flavor Enhancements
- Citrus Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of finely grated lemon, lime, or orange zest to the dough for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Almond Delight: Replace 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist.
- Spiced Up: Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour for a warm, spiced cookie perfect for the holidays.
2. Frosting Variations
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute ¼ cup of powdered sugar with softened cream cheese for a tangy, rich frosting.
- Chocolate Glaze: Add 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and an extra tablespoon of milk to the frosting for a chocolatey topping.
- Berry Bliss: Mix 2 tablespoons of pureed strawberries or raspberries into the frosting for a naturally pink, fruity flavor.
3. Textural Variations
- Chewy Cookies: Replace half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar to achieve a chewier texture.
- Crunchy Cookies: Roll the dough slightly thinner, around ⅛”, and bake for an additional 2–3 minutes for crispier cookies.
- Soft and Thick Cookies: Roll the dough to a ½” thickness and chill the cut shapes for 10 minutes before baking to keep them thick and soft.
4. Decorative Additions
- Colorful Fun: Divide frosting into bowls and tint each with food coloring for vibrant, customizable designs.
- Sprinkle Explosion: Knead ¼ cup of sprinkles directly into the dough for funfetti-style cookies.
- Metallic Sparkle: Use edible glitter or gold leaf for an elegant, festive look.
