Basic Sugar Cut Out Cookies Recipe

Ingredients for Basic Sugar Cut Out Cookies

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter
• Shortening
• Plain Flour
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Basic Sugar Cut Out Cookies

1. Cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar in a food processor until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
3. Add 1 teaspoon ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice (optional; or substitute with 1 cup chocolate chips).
4. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/2 centimeter (1/4 inch) thickness.
6. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on ungreased baking sheets.
7. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 6-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Baking time will depend on the size of your cookies.
8. Let cool for 1 minute on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate as desired!