My GoTo Cutout Sugar Cookie Recipe Perfect Shapes Every Time

Instructions:

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually Add Dry to Wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Form the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or preferably longer).
6. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
7. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Keep the other disc chilled.
8. Cut Out Shapes: Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
9. Place on Baking Sheets: Transfer cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about ½ inch of space between each cookie.
10. Bake: Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Watch carefully; they burn easily!
11. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Decorate (Optional): Once completely cool, decorate with royal icing and sprinkles, if desired.