The Best Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

Rolled Sugar Cookies are a classic treat that never go out of style. With a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and just the right hint of sweetness, these cookies are perfect for any celebration. What sets them apart is their ability to hold crisp edges, making them ideal for detailed designs using cookie cutters. From everyday shapes to festive themes, this versatile Sugar Cookie dough is a must-have in any baker’s recipe collection.

During the holiday season, Rolled Sugar Cookies become a cherished tradition in many homes. With the help of Christmas cookie cutters, families gather to shape and decorate stars, snowflakes, trees, and gingerbread figures. This simple dough not only bakes to perfection but also serves as the perfect canvas for royal icing, colored sugars, or sprinkles. Whether you’re preparing cookies for a party, gift boxes, or a holiday baking day, this recipe brings warmth, creativity, and joy to every kitchen.

Ingredients for Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

• 2 cups white sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create the classic crisp edges of traditional Sugar Cookies.
• 1 ½ cups butter, softened – Essential for a rich flavor and smooth texture. Use unsalted butter for best results.
• 4 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add moisture for soft, chewy Rolled Sugar Cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 5 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and ensures the cookies hold their shape when using detailed Christmas cookie cutters.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Gives the cookies a light, tender texture without puffing them out too much.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

How to Make Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

These Rolled Sugar Cookies are simple to prepare and perfect for holiday baking, parties, or any occasion that calls for a classic Sugar Cookie. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve buttery, soft, and beautifully shaped cookies every time.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1½ cups of softened butter and 2 cups of white sugar using an electric mixer. Mix until the texture becomes light, pale, and fluffy. This step creates the foundation for the cookie’s tender crumb.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Crack in 4 large eggs, one at a time, and beat well after each addition. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and continue mixing until smooth. The eggs add richness and structure, while the vanilla enhances the cookie’s warm, classic flavor.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 5 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. These dry ingredients will give your Rolled Sugar Cookies the strength to hold their shape when cut.

Combine and Form Dough: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir with a spatula or on low speed until a soft but firm dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly dense—easy to roll out after chilling.

Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight for deeper flavor and easier handling. Chilled dough is essential for clean, precise shapes, especially when using detailed Christmas cookie cutters.

Roll and Cut the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of ¼ to ½ inch. Use your desired cookie cutters—such as seasonal Christmas cookie cutters or classic circles and stars—to cut out the shapes.

Bake the Cookies: Place the cut cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Do not overbake, as this can result in a dry texture.

Cool and Decorate: Carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. Once cool, decorate with icing, sprinkles, or colored sugars. These Rolled Sugar Cookies are ideal for custom designs and decorating with family and friends.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cutouts

Making perfect Sugar Cookie cutouts starts with a dough that holds its shape without spreading. Follow these key steps for clean, crisp results:

• Chill the Dough – After mixing, refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 1 hour. This firms it up and makes it easier to roll and cut cleanly.
• Roll Evenly – On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to a consistent thickness—¼ inch is ideal for cutouts that bake evenly and stay soft in the center.
• Use Sharp Cookie Cutters – Choose metal or firm plastic cutters for defined edges. Christmas cookie cutters work especially well during the holidays.
• Cut and Transfer Carefully – Dip cutters in flour if needed. After cutting, use a thin spatula to gently lift and place cookies on the baking sheet.
• Bake at the Right Temperature – Bake in a fully preheated oven (typically 375–400°F / 190–200°C) until the edges are just turning golden—usually 6–8 minutes.

Let the cookies cool completely before decorating. This method ensures your Rolled Sugar Cookies keep their shape, texture, and style.

How to Bake Sugar Cookies

Baking Sugar Cookies properly ensures a soft center, crisp edges, and cookies that hold their shape—especially important for Rolled Sugar Cookies and cutouts.

• Preheat the Oven
  Set your oven to 375–400°F (190–200°C), depending on your recipe. Make sure it’s fully preheated before baking for even results.
• Prepare the Baking Sheets
  Use ungreased baking sheets or line them with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
• Arrange the Cookies
  Place cut cookies about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading. If the dough is well chilled, cookies will retain their shapes better—ideal when using Christmas cookie cutters.
• Bake Until Edges Are Lightly Golden
  Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. Keep a close eye—overbaking can lead to dry, brittle cookies.
• Cool Properly
  Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating or storing.

Perfectly baked Sugar Cookies are soft in the middle, crisp on the edges, and ready to enjoy or decorate for any occasion.

What to Serve With Rolled Sugar Cookies

Rolled Sugar Cookies are wonderfully versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a larger dessert spread. Here are five delicious pairings and ideas from Recipes Hungry that complement these cookies perfectly:

• The Best Lemon Vinaigrette: Pair your cookies with a light and refreshing meal featuring this zesty homemade vinaigrette. After a crisp salad dressed with lemon and herbs, Rolled Sugar Cookies make a sweet finish that doesn’t overpower.
• Mary Berry Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: A creamy, comforting dinner like this classic mac and cheese sets the stage for a nostalgic dessert like a traditional Sugar Cookie—simple, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family.
• Mexican Pizza Taco Bell Copycat: Balance a bold, savory dish with a light and buttery cookie. After enjoying layers of seasoned beef, beans, and cheese, these cookies provide a clean, sweet contrast.
• Award-Winning Chili Con Carne: This hearty, spicy chili pairs surprisingly well with a mild dessert. Offer Rolled Sugar Cookies as a fun, kid-friendly treat after a warm and filling bowl of chili.
• Puerto Rican Coquito: Serve your cookies alongside a chilled glass of creamy Coquito during the holidays. The coconut-rum flavor of this traditional drink pairs beautifully with festive cookies made using Christmas cookie cutters.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Rolled Sugar Cookies

• Chill the Dough – Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to help it roll smoothly and keep clean edges with Christmas cookie cutters.
• Avoid Overmixing – Mix just until the dough comes together to maintain a soft Sugar Cookie texture.
• Roll Evenly – Keep dough at ¼ inch thickness for even baking and perfect Rolled Sugar Cookies.
• Use Light Flour Dusting – Lightly flour your surface and cutters to prevent sticking without drying the dough.
• Bake Until Just Golden – Remove from the oven as soon as edges begin to turn golden to avoid dry cookies.

What Are Variations of Rolled Sugar Cookies?

Rolled Sugar Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be adapted in many ways to suit different tastes and occasions. Here are a few simple variations:

• Lemon Zest Sugar Cookies – Add 1–2 teaspoons of lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist.
• Spiced Sugar Cookies – Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor—perfect for fall or winter baking.
• Chocolate Sugar Cookies – Replace ½ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder to create rich, chocolate-flavored rolled cookies.
• Almond Sugar Cookies – Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to create a nutty, fragrant variation that pairs well with icing.
• Holiday-Themed Designs – Use Christmas cookie cutters, food coloring, and festive sprinkles to make cookies that match any holiday or celebration.

How to Store Rolled Sugar Cookies

Proper storage keeps your Rolled Sugar Cookies fresh and flavorful for days. Once fully cooled and decorated (if desired), place the cookies in an airtight container.

• At Room Temperature – Store plain or decorated Sugar Cookies in a single layer or with parchment between layers for up to 1 week.
• In the Refrigerator – Not necessary for plain cookies, but if decorated with perishable icing (like cream cheese frosting), store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• In the Freezer – For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough, wrapped tightly in plastic and placed in a freezer bag, for convenient baking later.

To serve, bring cookies to room temperature and enjoy their buttery texture and classic flavor just like fresh-baked.

How to Make Healthier Rolled Sugar Cookies

If you’re looking to enjoy Rolled Sugar Cookies with a healthier twist, small ingredient swaps can make a noticeable difference without sacrificing flavor or texture:

• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with white whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduce Sugar Slightly – Cut the sugar by ¼ cup without affecting the structure. The cookies will still be sweet and delicious.
• Use Unsweetened Applesauce – Swap out half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce saturated fat and calories.
• Add Natural Flavor Enhancers – Boost flavor with vanilla bean paste, almond extract, or citrus zest instead of adding more sugar.
• Opt for Lighter Toppings – Skip heavy frostings and decorate with lightly sweetened glazes or a dusting of cinnamon for a healthier finish.

These simple changes help transform your classic Sugar Cookie into a better-for-you option, ideal for everyday treats or holiday baking with balance in mind.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Estimated per 1 cookie (plain, undecorated):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 75mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g

These values are approximate and may vary depending on portion size, added toppings (like frosting or sprinkles), and ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the Rolled Sugar Cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 3 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before rolling.

Why is my dough sticky or too soft to roll?
Sticky dough usually needs more chilling time. If it’s still too soft, lightly flour your surface and rolling pin. Be careful not to add too much flour, which can dry out the dough and make the cookies crumbly.

What is the best way to decorate Sugar Cookies?
Royal icing and powdered sugar glaze work best for a smooth, professional finish. You can also decorate with colored sugar or sprinkles—especially festive when using Christmas cookie cutters.

Can I use gluten-free flour?
Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different from traditional Sugar Cookies but still delicious.

Where did Sugar Cookies originate?
Sugar Cookies are thought to have originated in 18th-century Pennsylvania, created by German settlers. You can read more about their history on Wikipedia – Sugar Cookie.