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The Ultimate Soft Sugar Cookies That Hold Their Shape

A stack of freshly baked soft sugar cookies generously coated in sparkling granulated sugar, resting on a white plate.
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Follow this straightforward recipe to make the best soft sugar cookies that stay wonderfully tender and chewy, yet hold their shape perfectly for cutting and decorating.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender texture.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or up to 2 days. Chilling is crucial for no-spread results.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one chilled dough disk to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
  8. Place the cutouts onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between them.
  9. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The edges should be set but the centers should still look slightly soft.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Decorate with your favorite frosting once fully cooled. These homemade sugar cookies stay soft for days.

Notes

  • For the softest, melt-in-your-mouth texture, do not overbake. Remove them when the edges just begin to turn light gold.
  • If your dough feels too soft while rolling, return it to the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This prevents spreading.
  • You can make the dough ahead of time. It freezes well for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/soft-sugar-cookies-recipe-chewy-cutout/