I love baking, and today I am excited to share my recipe for Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies. These cookies are soft, chocolatey, and perfect for any occasion. Topped with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting, they are sure to please everyone.
Growing up, my dad James would make cookies with us on rainy days. I remember the smell of cocoa filling the kitchen, and those sweet memories make these cookies even more special for me.
Gathering Your Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 cups sifted powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
The Tools That Help
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Cooling rack
The Step-by-Step Process
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and combine until smooth.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Let cookies cool on a cooling rack.
- In a separate bowl, beat the second cup of butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the vanilla buttercream.
Lighter, Healthier Touches
If you want a lighter version, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter. You can also use whole wheat flour for some added nutrition. Just keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
Perfect Pairings
These cookies go wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also pair well with fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, adding a nice balance to the rich chocolate flavor.
Common Stumbles to Avoid
Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling. Also, avoid overbaking the cookies; they should be set around the edges and slightly soft in the center when you take them out.
Storing Your Creation
Once your cookies are decorated and completely cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but they will be at their best for the first few days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them without frosting for up to three months.
A Final Warm Word
I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies as much as I do. They are perfect for family gatherings or just a sweet treat at home. Happy baking!
Answering Your Questions
What are Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies?
Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies are soft, chocolate-flavored cookies that can be cut into various shapes. They are often frosted for added sweetness and decoration.
How do I achieve the best texture for my cookies?
To get the best texture, be sure to use room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and egg. This helps create a light and fluffy dough. Also, avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Can I freeze Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the cookies without frosting. Just make sure they are completely cool before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Print
Chocolate Cut Out Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft, chocolatey cookies topped with creamy vanilla buttercream frosting are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 4 cups sifted powdered sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and combine until smooth.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Let cookies cool on a cooling rack.
- In a separate bowl, beat the second cup of butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the vanilla buttercream.
Notes
Use unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version or whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: cookies, chocolate, dessert, baking, vanilla buttercream