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Sugar Cookies

By Chef Melanie November 11, 2025
  • sugar cookies
  • cookies
  • cut-out cookies
  • baking
  • decorating
  • classic
Difficulty Beginner
Servings 36
Estimated Cost $8.00
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Prep Time 20 mins (plus 2 hours chilling)
Cook Time 5-9 mins
Total Time 2 hrs 30 mins
Yield Makes about 3 dozen cookies
Sugar Cookies

Classic sugar cookies that are perfect for decorating! These tender, buttery cookies hold their shape beautifully when cut with cookie cutters. Refrigerate the dough for the perfect texture, then bake and decorate as desired for any occasion.

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat oven to 375°F.

  2. 2

    Combine sugar and shortening in large mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed until well blended.

  3. 3

    Add eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla. Beat well.

  4. 4

    Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  5. 5

    Add gradually to creamed mixture at low speed. Mix until well blended.

  6. 6

    Cover and refrigerate dough at least 2 hours or overnight.

  7. 7

    Divide into three parts. Keep parts not using in refrigerator until ready to use.

  8. 8

    Roll dough out to 1/4 inch thickness; cut with floured cookie cutters.

  9. 9

    Transfer to ungreased baking sheet and bake for 5-9 minutes (small cut-outs bake for 5 minutes and larger ones for closer to 9 minutes).

  10. 10

    Do not overbake.

  11. 11

    Cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes and remove to wire racks.

  12. 12

    When completely cool, decorate as desired.