Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

If you love traditional sugar cookies but crave a rich chocolate twist, these Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are the answer! Perfectly crisp on the edges, tender in the center, and infused with a deep cocoa flavor, these cookies are as delicious as they are fun to make.

Ideal for decorating with frosting, royal icing, or sprinkles, they hold their shape beautifully when baked, making them perfect for holiday cookie trays, birthday parties, or any occasion that calls for something sweet and chocolatey.

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• Rich and Chocolatey: A decadent twist on classic sugar cookies.
• Holds Shape: Perfect for intricate cookie cutters and decorations.
• Customizable: Ideal for frosting, icing, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
• Holiday-Ready: A must-have for cookie exchanges and festive gatherings.

Exciting Story

The first time I made Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies, it was for a holiday cookie decorating party with friends. I wanted something different from the usual vanilla sugar cookies, so I added cocoa powder to my favorite recipe. As they baked, the aroma of rich chocolate filled the kitchen, and I knew I had found a new tradition.

When we decorated the cookies with colorful icing and sprinkles, the deep chocolate flavor paired perfectly with the sweetness of the toppings. Now, these cookies are a staple in my holiday baking repertoire, loved by kids and adults alike for their flavor and versatility.

Why These Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Versatile: Decorate with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy plain.
• Perfect Texture: Crisp edges with a soft, tender center.
• Ideal for Holidays: A chocolate lover’s dream for festive cookie trays.

What You Need for Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)

How to Make Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

1. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

1. Divide the dough into two portions, flatten each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, re-rolling the scraps as needed.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading and helps them hold their shape.
2. Use Parchment Paper: It makes rolling, cutting, and transferring cookies easier.
3. Don’t Overbake: The cookies should be just set when you take them out of the oven—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Extra Chocolatey: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the dough.
• Spiced Chocolate: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy twist.

Make a Healthier Version

• Reduce Sugar: Use 3/4 cup sugar instead of 1 cup.
• Whole-Grain Flour: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Natural Sweetener: Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar.

Closing for Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

And there you have it—Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies, a rich and festive treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re decorating them with colorful icing for the holidays or enjoying them plain with a cup of milk or coffee, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone. So grab your cookie cutters and get ready to bake something special!

Happy baking, and enjoy the delicious fun!

Frequently Asked Questions for Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
2. What’s the best way to store these cookies?
   Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
3. Can I freeze the baked cookies?
   Yes, freeze undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before decorating.
4. What’s the best cocoa powder to use?
   Use unsweetened cocoa powder for the richest chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa powder works well too.
5. How can I prevent the cookies from sticking to the counter?
   Roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper or lightly flour your surface.
6. Can I skip the almond extract?
   Yes! The almond extract adds extra flavor but is entirely optional.
7. How do I decorate these cookies?
   Use royal icing, buttercream, melted chocolate, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
8. Can I add sprinkles before baking?
   Yes, press sprinkles lightly into the dough before baking for a festive look.
9. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be set but not browned. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
10. What cookie cutters work best for this recipe?
    Metal cutters with sharp edges work best for clean shapes.
11. How thick should I roll the dough?
    Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness for the perfect balance of crisp and tender.
12. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, simply double the ingredients and divide the dough into four portions for easier handling.

Enjoy making and sharing these rich, chocolatey treats—perfect for all occasions! 🍪🍫✨