Chocolate Cut Out Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These chocolate cut out cookies are rich, tender, and perfect for decorating or enjoying as they are. With a smooth cocoa flavor and a soft texture, they make a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 100 g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 80 g (⅔ cup) powdered sugar
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 180 g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
• 25 g (¼ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 pinch of salt
• ½ tsp baking powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 1–2 perforated baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder if using.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer paddle attachment until smooth and creamy.
4. Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until fully combined.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed just until combined, forming a sticky dough.
6. Step 6: Use a pastry scraper to gather the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and press into a flat disk.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the dough for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
8. Step 8: Roll the chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about ⅛ inch (3 mm) thickness, then freeze for 10–15 minutes to make cutting easier.
9. Step 9: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
10. Step 10: Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain slightly soft.
11. Step 11: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dough.
• If you prefer crisper cookies, bake a minute or two longer.
• These cookies can be decorated with royal icing or dipped in melted chocolate once cooled.
• Replace the vanilla extract with almond extract for a different aromatic twist.

Storage

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm briefly in a low oven.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from becoming too salty.

Can I skip the baking powder?

Yes, baking powder is optional and mainly helps lighten the texture slightly. Omitting it will still produce delicious cookies with a denser texture.