Sugar Cookie Recipe

Sugar cookies are versatile for any event, yet they hold a particular charm during the holidays. Let your creativity shine by choosing colors that suit the occasion or holiday. These decorated sugar cookies also double as delightful gifts or party favors.

Here's the tried-and-true sugar cookie recipe straight from my pastry shop, cherished by my baking students and perfect for all your baking endeavors.

Ingredients

2 stiicks (8 oz) unsalted butter    

1 cup (8 oz) granulated sugar     

1 whole egg             

1 teaspoon vanilla extract    

1 teaspoon baking powder    

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 1/2 (12 oz) all-purpose flour

YIELD: 3½ to 4 dozen cookies

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F .

2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with the paddle attachment for 2 minutes. Stop and scrape the bowl. Cream the mixture for an additional 60 seconds.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until the mixture is well combined, 30 to 45 seconds.
4. Sift together the baking powder  and flour. Mix thoroughly The dough should be stiff.
5. Let dough chill for about 1-2 hours.  On a lightly floured surface, roll out onto the floured surface to ⅛- to ¼-in. thick.
6. Cut out cookies with your favorite cookie cutters, dipping the cutters into flour before each use.
7. Carefully place the cookies on a parchment-lined half-sheet pan. Bake for 10 to12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies begin to brown lightly.
8. Let the cookies rest on the cookie sheet until ready to use. 
9. Decorate with Royal icing (from our recipes) or buttercream, or enjoy them plain.

Note: To avoid spreading, let cookies chill for about 10 minutes before baking. 

ENJOY!!!