Introduction
There’s something truly magical about baking cookies, especially when it comes to a delightful batch of Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, be it a holiday gathering or a simple afternoon treat with friends and family. With their rich chocolate flavor and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to impress both young and old alike. And let’s not forget the fun of decorating them with colorful sprinkles or decadent icing! Let’s get started on this sweet adventure together.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp almond extract
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating
- Royal icing or chocolate frosting for decorating (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling)
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set the mixture aside, allowing the ingredients to mingle.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 minutes of mixing should do the trick!
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract, combining all these heavenly flavors.
- Gradually sprinkle the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our cookies to stay soft and tender.
- Divide the dough into two equal discs, wrap them snugly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm enough to roll out.
- Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to a thickness of about ¼ inch. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes, creating a delightful assortment of cookies.
- Carefully place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly puffed.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Finally, unleash your creativity by decorating your cookies with colored sugar, sprinkles, royal icing, or rich chocolate frosting as desired.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate intensity. Also, feel free to experiment with different shapes and holiday themes when cutting out your cookies!
Cooking Techniques
Chilling the dough is key to achieving the perfect soft texture in these cookies. It allows the butter to firm up, which results in cookies that hold their shape well during baking. Don’t skip this step, as it makes a world of difference!
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator before rolling it out and baking.
How should I store the cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’ve decorated them with icing, keep them in the fridge to preserve the icing.
Conclusion
These Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. With a soft, chewy center and endless decorating possibilities, they’re the perfect treat to share with loved ones or to keep all to yourself. Gather your ingredients and let the baking begin—your kitchen is about to fill with the mouthwatering aroma of chocolatey goodness!