Name: Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup dairy-free butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 2 tablespoons non-dairy milk; 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled; plus extra for rolling); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (*); 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted); 2 tablespoons light corn syrup; 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 4-6 tablespoons water (divided (start with 4)); gel food coloring (optional); sprinkles (for decorating the cookies)

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There’s something truly magical about baking, especially when it comes to making Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies. I remember the first time I decided to make these cookies; it was a chilly afternoon, and I had a craving for something sweet yet comforting. As I mixed the ingredients, I could almost taste the nostalgic essence of childhood. The aroma of baking filled my home, taking me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where we would spend hours cutting out shapes and decorating them with colorful sprinkles. Making these cookies is not just about the end result; it’s about the joy of being in the kitchen, letting your creativity flow, and sharing delicious treats with loved ones.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why This Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies Shines

Deliciously Vegan

One of the standout features of these cookies is that they’re completely vegan, which means everyone can enjoy them, regardless of dietary preferences. Using dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk doesn’t compromise the flavor or texture, making them a hit at any gathering.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies are versatile enough to suit any celebration, from birthdays to holidays, or just a cozy evening at home. You can customize them with various shapes and colors, making them great for themed parties or seasonal festivities.

Fun Decorating

The joy of decorating these cookies is unmatched. You can let your creativity run wild with different icing colors, toppings, and even edible glitter! The process becomes a delightful activity for both kids and adults, creating lasting memories in the kitchen.

Simple and Straightforward

Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced baker. The recipe for Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for everyone. With just a few easy steps, you can whip up a batch without spending hours in the kitchen.

Great for Gifting

These cookies make perfect gifts. Pack them in a beautiful box or tin, and you’ve got a heartfelt present that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Plus, who doesn’t love homemade goodies?

Healthy Indulgence

While they are sweet, these cookies can be part of a balanced diet. By using natural sweeteners and keeping the ingredients wholesome, you can enjoy a treat without the guilt. It’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while still being mindful of your health.

Ingredients Required for Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies

The magic of Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies lies in the quality and harmony of its ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie, from the soft texture to the delightful taste. Here’s a brief overview of the key players:

Dairy-Free Butter: Provides the rich, creamy base for the cookies, ensuring a soft texture.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the dough, creating that signature sugar cookie taste.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the bulk of the cookies, giving them structure.
Cornstarch: Helps to achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents create the perfect lift and softness.
Powdered Sugar: Used for making the frosting smooth and sweet for decorating.
Gel Food Coloring: Adds a pop of color for those festive occasions!

Cooking Instructions for Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Baking these Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies is an experience to savor. Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll have delicious cookies in no time!

Cream the Butter: Start by adding the dairy-free butter and granulated sugar to a large bowl or stand mixer. Mix on low speed for about 3 to 5 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl as needed. You want a light and fluffy mixture. Once it’s smooth, add the non-dairy milk, vanilla extract, and if you choose, almond extract. Beat it again for about a minute until everything is well combined.
Mix in Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Stop mixing when just combined; the dough should be thick and not sticky. If it appears too dry, add more non-dairy milk by the tablespoon until it comes together.
Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half and flatten each half into a disc. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much when baking.
Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 2 to 4 baking sheets with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface or silicone mat, take one disc of dough out of the fridge. If it’s been chilled for over 3 hours, let it sit for 30 minutes to soften. Dust the surface and your rolling pin with flour, then roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. If the dough cracks, just pinch it back together and keep rolling.
Cut the Cookies: Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Press the cutter firmly down and give it a little wiggle to cut through completely. Transfer the cut cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least half an inch between each one.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven. For cookies that are 4 inches or less, bake for about 8 minutes. Larger cookies will need 10 to 11 minutes. You want them to be just barely golden on the bottom. For crunchier cookies, bake a few minutes longer.
Cool and Repeat: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and any scraps.
Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, sift the powdered sugar and mix in light corn syrup, pure vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of water. Whisk until smooth, adjusting the water for desired consistency. Add gel food coloring if you want to make colorful frostings.
Decorate the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, transfer the frosting into piping bags and decorate as desired. Add sprinkles for that extra flair!
Store the Cookies: Allow the frosting to set for at least 3 hours before storing the cookies in an airtight container. They can last for up to 5 days, but they’re usually gone much faster!

Things Worth Knowing

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. It allows the flour to absorb moisture, resulting in cookies that hold their shape when baked.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies.
Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the end result. High-quality dairy-free butter and flour make a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Experiment with Shapes: Don’t be afraid to use different cookie cutters. Seasonal shapes can add a fun twist to your baking!
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them when they’re just golden to maintain softness.

Tips and Tricks about Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Here are some essential tips to ensure your Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time:

Storage: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay good for up to five days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic and store it for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before rolling out.
Pairing: These cookies pair well with your favorite non-dairy milk or a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
Decorating: Get creative with decorations! Use various colors of frosting and toppings like nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a little more water; if it’s too thin, sift in more powdered sugar until you reach the desired texture.

Accompaniments for Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies

When serving your Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies, consider these delightful accompaniments:

Tea or Coffee: These cookies are perfect with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The sweetness complements the bitterness of the drink beautifully.
Fruit Platter: Serve alongside a platter of fresh fruits like strawberries and oranges for a refreshing balance to the sweetness.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vegan ice cream on the side can turn these cookies into an indulgent dessert.
Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy family gathering. Their customizable nature makes them ideal for any event!
Store in a Jar: For a charming presentation, layer the cookies in a glass jar as a gift or centerpiece.
Cooking Parties: These cookies are excellent for baking parties, allowing everyone to decorate their creations while having fun.

FAQ

Yes, you can certainly use regular butter if you’re not following a vegan diet. However, the texture and flavor may slightly differ. Dairy-free butter is recommended for the best vegan results and ensures that the cookies remain suitable for those with dairy allergies.

To keep your Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They typically last for up to five days. If you’d like to make them ahead of time, you can freeze the dough for up to three months before baking.

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before rolling it out if it’s been in the fridge too long.

If you don’t have almond extract or prefer not to use it, you can simply omit it or replace it with an equal amount of vanilla extract. This will still provide a delightful flavor to your cookies.

Conclusion

The Vegan Cut Out Sugar Cookies are truly a delightful treat that brings back fond memories of baking and sharing with loved ones. Their soft texture and sweet flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or just enjoying a cozy day at home. I encourage you to try making these cookies for yourself; you won’t regret it!