Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (227g)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar (30g)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (281g)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt (1.5g)
  • Royal Icing (optional)
  • Sprinkles, food coloring (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  5. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them.
  9. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Once completely cool, decorate with royal icing, sprinkles, or other desired decorations.