Old-Fashioned Christmas Cut Outs
Old-Fashioned Christmas Cut Outs are soft, fluffy cookies perfect for holiday festivities. With a rich buttery flavor and subtle vanilla notes, they are ideal for decorating and sharing. These timeless treats bring warmth and nostalgia to any celebration, making them a family favorite for seasonal baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, adding flour gradually until the dough is easy to roll and not too sticky.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness, not too thin.
- Cut into desired shapes and place on cookie sheets, not too close together.
- Bake at 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the backs are a very light shade of tan.
- Remove from the oven and place on a flat surface to cool.
- Once cooled, frost and decorate as desired.
- Makes about 10 to 12 dozen cookies.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the margarine or butter is at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, almond extract can be a delightful alternative to vanilla. To prevent sticking, lightly flour your rolling surface and rolling pin. For a festive twist, consider adding colored sprinkles or using cookie cutters in holiday shapes. This dough can also be used for Stay Soft Sugar Cookies if you prefer a softer bite.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Cut Outs are perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges. Serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or festive eggnog for a delightful treat. Consider pairing them with a platter of Oatmeal Spice Cookies for a variety of flavors. Frosted and decorated, they make beautiful gifts for friends and family, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to regain their fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old-Fashioned Christmas Cut Outs contains roughly 2843 calories, with 60g protein, 504g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (147% of the Daily Value), protein (121% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1835mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends if you're looking for a gluten-free option. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, and adjustments in liquid may be needed, so start with a smaller amount and increase as necessary.
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent excessive spreading, chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out. Additionally, ensure the margarine or butter is not too soft when mixing, as this can lead to spread. Using a well-floured surface can also help maintain shape during baking.
What decorations work best for these cookies?
Royal icing and colored sprinkles are classic choices for decorating Christmas Cut Outs. You can also use fondant for more intricate designs. If you prefer a simpler approach, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add a festive touch without much effort.
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).