Perfect Cutout Cookies
Sweet, buttery cutout cookies with a crisp edge and tender center, perfect for decorating and sharing with family and friends during holidays or celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the margarine and shortening until well combined.
- Add sugar and beat until fluffy.
- Add egg, milk, and vanilla; beat well.
- Add the flour mixture; beat until well mixed.
- Cover and chill for 3 hours.
- Roll out on a lightly floured pastry sheet and cut out with favorite cookie cutters.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 minutes, until lightly golden at edges.
Tips & Substitutions
For perfectly cutout cookies, make sure to chill the dough for at least 3 hours; this helps maintain their shape during baking. If you don’t have margarine, you can substitute it with butter for a richer flavor. Also, consider adding almond extract for a unique twist or using whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Remember to flour your surface well to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by decorating with royal icing or sprinkles. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. Consider serving them alongside 4 Dozen Rolls for a festive gathering. They also make a great gift when packaged in a decorative box.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to three months. To enjoy them again, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Perfect Cutout Cookies contains roughly 1004 calories, with 13g protein, 140g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1117mg per serving (49% 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 all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour works well for this recipe. Cake flour can yield a softer texture, but all-purpose flour will still produce delicious cookies. Just ensure you measure accurately to maintain the right dough consistency.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can enhance the festive feel by adding colorful sprinkles to the dough or decorating them with icing after baking. Using cookie cutters in seasonal shapes like stars or hearts also adds to the celebration. Pair them with No Bake Strawberry Whip Cream Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days before rolling out. This allows for easy preparation when you're ready to bake. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling.
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).