Introduction
There’s something incredibly delightful about a warm batch of chocolate cookies, especially when they’re soft, rich, and ready to be transformed into fun shapes! These Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fantastic activity for family gatherings or holiday baking. With their deep chocolate flavor and a soft, tender crumb, they’re perfect for decorating or enjoying straight from the oven. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have your kitchen filled with the sweet aroma of chocolate goodness!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (includes chilling)
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Add in the egg, pure vanilla extract, and almond extract (if you choose to use it) to the butter-sugar mix, and continue mixing until everything is well incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. It should be velvety and slightly sticky, perfect for rolling out!
- Divide the dough in half, flatten each portion into a disc shape, and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the discs for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and the dough firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper in preparation for your cookie creations.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and carefully place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just set. They will continue to firm up as they cool! Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
- If the dough feels too soft to roll out after refrigerating, you can let it chill for an additional 30 minutes.
- Feel free to decorate your cookies with icing or sprinkles for an extra special touch!
- These cookies store well in an airtight container for up to a week, but they’re so delicious, they won’t last long!
Cooking Techniques
When making these cookies, ensuring that your butter is softened (but not melted) is crucial for achieving that perfect soft texture. Chilling the dough not only helps with rolling but also prevents spreading during baking, leading to beautifully shaped treats. Additionally, rolling your dough evenly will help ensure that all cookies bake uniformly, resulting in consistent texture and taste.
FAQ
Can I use different types of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Just be mindful of the different absorbencies!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the wrapped discs for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before rolling out and baking.
Conclusion
These Super Soft Chocolate Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are a delightful way to bring a touch of chocolatey joy to any occasion. Whether you’re crafting festive shapes for a holiday celebration or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Enjoy the process and make some cherished memories in the kitchen while baking these delicious treats!