How do I know when it is done?

Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.

Can I change the flavor?

Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.

What should beginners watch most closely?

Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Back to Recipes

Soft Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe with Easy Royal Icing Decoration

Name: Soft Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe with Easy Royal Icing Decoration
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional); For Royal Icing:; 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted; 3 tablespoons meringue powder; 4 to 5 tablespoons warm water; Food coloring (optional)

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 2, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026

American 30 mins beginner-friendlystep-by-stepkid-friendlypartycomfort-foodeasyroyal-icingminimal-ingredientssnackcookie-cutouts

Bake soft and flavorful sugar cookie cutouts decorated with smooth, easy royal icing. This beginner-friendly American cookie recipe is perfect for kids and parties, featuring tender cookies that hold their shape beautifully and simple instructions for delicious, decorative treats.

Soft Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe with Easy Royal Icing Decoration

Prep 20 min

Cook 10 min

Total 30 min

Servings 24

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 24

2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For Royal Icing
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
3 tablespoons meringue powder
4 to 5 tablespoons warm water
Food coloring (optional)

BeginnerBakes soft sugar cookie cutout ingredients

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set dry ingredients aside.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), mixing until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, mixing just until the dough comes together. If sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough is soft but manageable.
Divide the dough into two portions. Lightly flour the work surface and rolling pin.
Roll out one portion to about ¼ inch (6mm) thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut dough shapes, placing them 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Repeat rolling and cutting with the second portion. Gather scraps, roll gently, and cut additional cookies.
Bake cookies for 8 to 10 minutes until edges start to turn golden but centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to ensure softness.
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make royal icing, combine sifted powdered sugar and meringue powder in a bowl.
Add 4 tablespoons warm water and mix on low speed with a hand mixer until smooth and glossy. Add more water, 1 teaspoon at a time, to reach desired consistency - thick for outlines, thinner for flooding.
Divide icing into small bowls and add food coloring if desired.
Use piping bags or zip-top bags with a small corner cut off to decorate cooled cookies. Allow icing to dry completely, 2 to 4 hours, before storing.
Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

BeginnerBakes sugar cookie dough rolled and cut into shapes

Tips

Equipment Needed

Gather these essential baking tools for making soft sugar cookie cutouts with royal icing decoration: Mixing Bowls: Medium bowl for dry ingredients and large bowl for creaming butter and sugar. Electric Mixer: Handheld or stand mixer to cream ingredients and mix royal icing smoothly. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of flour, sugar, extracts, and other ingredients.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Flour: Use all-purpose flour as stated for ideal cookie texture and cutout shape. For gluten-free baking, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Lightly dust surfaces with flour to prevent sticking but avoid excess for tender cookies.

Oven Note

Ensure perfect soft sugar cookies with these oven tips tailored for beginners: Preheat Fully: Heat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) before baking for even cooking. Use Oven Thermometer: Confirm true oven temperature for consistent results as oven dials may be inaccurate. Center Rack Baking: Place trays on the middle rack for balanced heat and even baking.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Elevate your sugar cookie cutouts with these beginner-friendly upgrades: Flavor Variations: Swap almond extract for citrus zest (lemon, orange) or add warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Fun Frosting: Add cocoa powder to royal icing for chocolate flavor, or use vibrant food coloring for themed decorating. Crunch & Texture: Press mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or chopped nuts onto dough before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Soft Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe with Easy Royal Icing Decoration ahead?: Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?: Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?: Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?: Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour: Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
baking powder: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter: Use melted butter, neutral oil, or a plant-based baking stick in the same amount, knowing that flavor and tenderness may shift slightly.
(200g) granulated sugar: Swap with a similar sweetener in small adjustments because liquid sweeteners can change browning and moisture.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

More Recipes

Explore more recipes you may like.

Reviews

Rate this recipe and share a photo of your result.

No reviews yet.

Soft Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe with Easy Royal Icing Decoration

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions