If you’re searching for the perfect blend of rich, molasses-kissed flavor and delightful cut-out cookie charm, you’ve found your new favorite recipe: Brown Sugar Cut-Out Cookies. These aren’t just any sugar cookies – they’re deeply caramelized, tender, and hold their shapes beautifully for holiday decorating, gift-giving, or weekend baking with the kids. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with simple pantry staples.
Ingredients
(Makes about 36 cookies, 3-inch rounds)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed dark brown sugar (key for that signature depth!)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for rolling)
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
Method :
Step 1: Cream Butter & Brown Sugar
Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar in a large mixing basin for three to four minutes, or until they are light, fluffy, and thoroughly mixed. This step is crucial for texture and flavor development.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the egg and vanilla essence and beat until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet & Dry
Mix on low speed until barely incorporated, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. To keep your cookies soft, avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 3 days). Chilling is non-negotiable – it prevents spreading and makes rolling easier.
Step 6: Roll & Cut
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out one disk of dough to a thickness of ¼ inches on a surface dusted with flour. Use your favorite cut-out cookie shapes – stars, trees, snowmen, or hearts!
Transfer cut-outs to parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving 1 inch between cookies.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake until the edges are barely brown, about 8 to 10 minutes. The cores will firm up as they cool, so they should still appear slightly mushy.
Step 8: Decorate & Enjoy!
Once completely cool, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or a dusting of powdered sugar. These brown sugar cut-out cookies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld!