Chocolate Cut Out Cookies Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the rich, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen when you’re baking a batch of chocolate cut out cookies. This classic recipe offers a perfect balance of chocolaty goodness and tender texture, making it a must-have for cookie enthusiasts. Plus, it’s incredibly fun to make, especially with family or friends at your side.
Growing up, these cookies were a staple at every family gathering. My grandmother would let us use all sorts of fun cookie cutters, turning each baking session into a creative art project. The best part was decorating them with colorful icing and sprinkles. It was a tradition that not only satisfied our sweet tooth but also brought us closer together, filled with laughter and warm memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly forgiving and easy to make, even for beginners. The dough is versatile, allowing for endless creativity with shapes and decorations. Plus, it’s a great activity for kids, letting them unleash their inner artist. The flavor is perfectly chocolaty without being overpowering, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the last. And if you’re planning a festive occasion or need edible gifts, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients Notes
To make these cookies, you’ll need a few pantry staples: flour, cocoa powder, butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. If you’re out of vanilla extract, almond extract makes a delicious alternative. For those who are lactose intolerant, plant-based butter works just as well. Sifting the dry ingredients beforehand can make a noticeable difference in the dough’s texture, ensuring every cookie is consistently amazing.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy removal and clean up.
Step 2
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, forming a cohesive dough.
Step 4
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them onto the prepared baking sheets.
Step 5
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and centers are set. Cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature for a freshly baked feel.
Variations & Substitutions
For those who love a bit of spice, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough. You can also switch out the cocoa powder for matcha for a unique green tea twist. For gluten-free cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness by using coconut sugar or honey instead of regular granulated sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to make it easier to roll out.
How can I ensure my cookies hold their shape? To prevent spreading, chill your cut out shapes in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps firm up the butter within the dough, maintaining your desired shapes more effectively during baking.
What kind of decoration works best for these cookies? Royal icing is a popular choice for its clean, glossy finish and durability. However, you can also use buttercream for a softer, more melt-in-your-mouth texture. For fun and easy decorating, sprinkles, edible glitter, and colored sugars provide excellent results with minimal effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Chocolate Cut Out Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.75 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1.25 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg large
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and egg, and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out on a floured surface.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place cut cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
