Easy, Crusty Cut Outs
These quick, crunchy cut-outs are perfect for snacking or decorating desserts, offering a cinnamon-sugar flavor that appeals to kids and adults alike. Easy to make and fun to customize.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Let the refrigerated pie crust soften to room temperature.
- Sprinkle a little flour on the kitchen counter and place the crust on top.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the crust.
- Re-roll the remaining pastry to make more shapes.
- Sprinkle the cut-outs with cinnamon and sugar mixture.
- Place the shaped pastry on a cookie sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy, then cool on paper towels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cinnamon and sugar mixture. If you don't have cookie cutters, use a glass or any round object to create circles. Make sure to keep the dough cold for best results, and avoid overworking it to maintain the flakiness. You can also use gluten-free pie crust for a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
These crusty cut-outs make a delightful snack on their own, but you can also serve them alongside whipped cream or a fruit dip for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Cherwine Punch for a festive touch. Consider using them as a garnish for desserts or as toppings on ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cut-outs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy, Crusty Cut Outs contains roughly 49 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cut-outs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cut-outs and freeze them before baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for the pie crust?
If you want a healthier option, you can use a homemade whole wheat crust or even a puff pastry. For a vegan version, look for a vegan pie crust at the store or make your own using coconut oil instead of butter.
How do I ensure the cut-outs are crispy?
To achieve crispy cut-outs, be sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet and to bake them until they are golden brown. Also, allowing them to cool on paper towels helps absorb any excess moisture, maintaining their crunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).