Basic Sugar Cookies

Name: Basic Sugar Cookies
Yield: 1
Ingredients: 1 1/2 c. unsalted butter; 3/4 c. granulated sugar; 3/4 c. confectioners' sugar; 1/2 tsp. salt; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp. vanilla extract; 4 1/4 c. all-purpose flour

By Frank P. MelodiaPublished: Oct 26, 2012

Be the first to review!

Yields:

Jump to recipe

These cookies quickly and easily add a specialized touch to any celebration — simply choose cookie-cutter shapes and decorations for the occasion.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Directions

1. Step 1Make dough: Beat butter, sugars, and salt in a large bowl with a mixer on low speed until fluffy. Beat in egg and extract. Beat in flour until just blended. Divide dough into thirds, then shape each third into a 1-inch-thick disk. Wrap each separately with plastic; chill 1 hour or until firm.
2. Step 2Bake dough: Heat oven to 350 degrees F. On a floured surface, roll out 1 disk at a time to a scant 1/4-inch thickness. Using floured cutters, cut out shapes. Transfer shapes with a floured spatula onto parchment-lined baking sheets, placing them 2 inches apart. Re-roll dough scraps and cut only once. Toss leftover dough.
3. Step 3Bake 11 to 13 minutes, until cookies are lightly golden along bottom edges. Cool slightly on baking sheets on a wire rack; transfer cookies to rack to cool completely. Ice if desired using store-bought or Master Royal Icing. Let all iced cookies dry at least 4 hours.