Vanilla Cut Out Cookies
If there’s one cookie that has the power to evoke childhood memories, it’s the classic vanilla cut out cookie. These cookies are not only deliciously buttery and sweet but also incredibly versatile, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re decorating them for a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies will surely bring a smile to your face. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, you can create a batch of scrumptious vanilla cut out cookies that will impress your family and friends.
Why Cooks Rave About It
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Vanilla cut out cookies are a favorite among home bakers for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of common ingredients. The flavor is rich and comforting, thanks to the combination of butter and vanilla. Plus, their fun shapes and vibrant decorations make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or just indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are the perfect canvas for your creativity.
Shopping List
To whip up a batch of delightful vanilla cut out cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated white sugar
- ¼ cup light corn syrup
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, beaten
Cook’s Kit
Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing ingredients and a smaller one for whisking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough to an even thickness.
- Cookie Cutters: Choose your favorite shapes for festive fun.
- Baking Sheets: Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cooling Rack: To let the cookies cool completely after baking.
Vanilla Cut Out Cookies — Do This Next
Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of vanilla cut out cookies.
Step 1: Prepare Your Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened salted butter and granulated white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Corn Syrup and Vanilla
Mix in the light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and the beaten egg. Stir until everything is combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that tender texture!
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disk, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for easy rolling and cutting.
Step 6: Roll Out and Cut Shapes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on prepared baking sheets.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, feel free to decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain!
Seasonal Spins
These vanilla cut out cookies are perfect for any occasion, and you can easily adapt them to fit the season:
- Halloween: Use spooky shapes like ghosts and pumpkins. Decorate with orange and black icing.
- Christmas: Create festive shapes like stars, trees, and snowflakes, and decorate with vibrant royal icing.
- Valentine’s Day: Make heart-shaped cookies and decorate with pink and red icing and sprinkles.
- Spring: Use flower and egg shapes for a cheerful spring-themed cookie platter.
Notes on Ingredients
Here’s a closer look at some of the key ingredients you’ll be using:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cookie dough, providing structure and texture.
- Butter: This adds richness and flavor. Always use salted butter for the best taste.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps achieve that delightful crispiness.
- Corn syrup: Adds moisture and helps keep the cookies soft.
- Vanilla extract: The star of the show! Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your vanilla cut out cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
- At Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- In the Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to warm them up.
Reader Questions
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
While salted butter enhances the flavor, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to the dough to balance the sweetness.
Can I substitute corn syrup with another ingredient?
Yes! You can use honey or agave syrup as a substitute for corn syrup, but the texture may vary slightly.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading while baking?
Ensure your dough is thoroughly chilled before cutting out shapes. This helps maintain their shape while baking.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. The cookies may have a slightly different texture and flavor.
Similar Recipes
If you love vanilla cut out cookies, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:
See You at the Table
Now that you’re armed with a delightful recipe for vanilla cut out cookies, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy the fruits of your labor. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience to be shared. Whether you’re decorating them together or simply enjoying them fresh from the oven, each bite is sure to bring joy. Happy baking!
Vanilla Cut Out Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk together until well mixed.
- In another bowl, beat the softened salted butter and granulated white sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Mix in the light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and the beaten egg. Stir until everything is combined and smooth.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that tender texture!
- Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disk, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be sure to keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once completely cool, feel free to decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain!
Notes
- Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months.
