- Divide and Wrap
- Divide the dough into two portions. Flatten each into a disk and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. This makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Roll Out the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness.
- Cut Out Shapes
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes, dipping the cutters in flour if they start to stick.
- Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Re-roll Scraps
- Gather the dough scraps, re-roll, and cut more cookies. Repeat with the second disk of dough.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
- Bake
- Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. The centers should remain pale for a soft texture.
- Cool
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before decorating.
Step 5: Decorate (Optional)
- Frost or Glaze
- Use royal icing or your favorite frosting to decorate the cookies.
- Add sprinkles, colored sugar, or edible glitter while the icing is still wet.
- Let Dry
- Allow decorated cookies to set for at least 1 hour before stacking or storing.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store plain cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Decorated cookies should be stored in a single layer or with parchment between layers.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough disks for up to 3 months, or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw before decorating.
Pro Tips
- Chill Again if Necessary: If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, pop it back into the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add lemon zest, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the dough for a unique twist.
- Prevent Spreading: Ensure the baking sheets and dough are cool before baking for sharp, clean edges.
These old-fashioned rolled sugar cookies are a timeless treat, perfect for any occasion. With their buttery flavor and soft texture, they’re sure to become a cherished family recipe!