Perfect No-Fail Sugar Cookies Your new go-to recipe—no chill, no spread, and perfect for decorating! These buttery, soft-cutouts hold their shape beautifully and stay tender for days. A baker’s dream
Why This Recipe Works
✅ No-spread edges – Crisp designs every time.
⏱ No chilling needed – Bake right away!
❄️ Freezer-friendly – Dough or baked cookies store perfectly.
👑 #1 bestseller – Tried, tested, and customer-approved.
Ingredients *(Makes 3-6 dozen, depending on size)*
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1 lb (454g) butter (½ salted + ½ unsalted)
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2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tsp almond extract (secret flavor boost!)
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6 cups (750g) all-purpose flour (measured correctly!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cream Butter & Sugar
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Beat butter and sugar just until combined (don’t overmix).
2. Add Eggs & Extracts
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Mix in eggs one at a time, then vanilla + almond extracts. Beat 1-2 mins until smooth.
3. Incorporate Flour
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Add flour in 2-cup increments, mixing just until dough pulls away from the bowl.
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Test: Dough shouldn’t stick to your finger when touched.
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4. Roll & Cut
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Roll ¼-inch thick between parchment/wax paper (no extra flour needed!).
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Cut shapes, re-roll scraps without toughening.
5. Bake
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350°F (175°C) for 11-13 mins (smaller = 11 mins, larger = 13 mins).
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Done when bottoms are barely golden – tops stay pale for softness.
Pro Tips
🔸 Butter temp: Cool room temp (68°F/20°C). Too soft? Cookies spread.
🔸 Roll evenly: Joseph Joseph rolling pin with guides = perfect thickness.
🔸 Freeze dough: Portion into discs, wrap tightly, freeze up to 3 months.
Royal Icing Recipe (For Decorating)
Ingredients
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1 (2lb/907g) bag powdered sugar
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3 heaping tbsp Wilton’s meringue powder
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1 tbsp vanilla extract
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9+ tbsp water (adjust for consistency)
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Optional: Swap 1 tbsp water for almond extract.
Method
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Whisk powdered sugar + meringue powder.
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Add vanilla + water; mix just until smooth (overmixing = bubbles).
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Thin with water for flooding or piping.
Storage & Serving
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Room temp: 1 week in airtight container.
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Freeze baked cookies: Layer with parchment for up to 3 months.
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Gift idea: Pack in cellophane bags with ribbon!
FAQ
Can I use all unsalted butter?
Yes, but add ½ tsp salt to the flour.
Why almond extract?
It adds depth without tasting “almondy”—just richer vanilla!
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes! Makes ~1.5-3 dozen.
Final Thought
These foolproof sugar cookies are a decorator’s dream—soft yet sturdy, with a hint of almond warmth. Perfect for holidays, weddings, or edible gifts!
More Bestsellers to Try:
🎄 Gingerbread Cutouts
💝 Valentine’s Heart Cookies
🐰 Easter Egg Cookies