Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, and these Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. With a rich cocoa flavor and a tender texture that’s simply irresistible, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from festive holidays to casual get-togethers. Whether you decorate them with vibrant colored sugar or a swirl of frosting, they are bound to bring joy to your family and friends. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Colored sugar or frosting for decorating
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to let those dry ingredients mingle.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful scent.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until everything is smoothly combined.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to form a soft dough.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Flatten each part into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Once the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thick. Enjoy the rich cocoa aroma as you roll!
- Using your favorite cookie cutters, cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
- If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the cookies with colorful sugar before popping them into the oven.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set. The cookies will still be soft, so take care not to overbake!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting, as this helps create a lovely, creamy texture. If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough a bit longer to make it easier to work with. When decorating, get creative! Use colored sugar for a classic look or pipe on frosting for an extra touch of sweetness.
Cooking Techniques
Don’t rush the chilling process; allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors develop and ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking. Also, rolling the dough out on a floured surface prevents sticking and makes cutting out shapes a breeze. Enjoy the process of baking – it’s about more than just the end result!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookies once they’re baked. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can also be frozen before baking; simply roll out the dough and cut out your shapes, then freeze them before baking directly from the freezer.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Conclusion
These Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings a warm touch to any gathering. The blend of chocolatey goodness with the fun of decorating makes them an ideal project for all ages. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade cookies. Happy baking!