Chocolate Cut Out Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These chocolate cut out cookies are a delightful treat with a rich cocoa flavor and a tender texture. Perfect for decorating or enjoying plain, they are a fun and easy way to satisfy any chocolate craving.

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, then mix until fully incorporated.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix on low speed until just 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 shape into a flat disk.
7. Step 7: Refrigerate the dough for at least 20 minutes.
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 firm up for easy cutting.
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, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft.
11. Step 11: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crisp edges, add ½ tsp baking powder to the dry ingredients, but it’s optional.
• Decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing or melted chocolate for festive occasions.
• For a richer chocolate flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
• If the dough becomes too soft while rolling, chill it again before cutting shapes.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat briefly in a low oven or enjoy them at room temperature.

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 adding extra salt to avoid overly salty cookies.

Why is the dough refrigerated and then frozen before cutting?

Chilling firms up the dough to make it easier to roll and cut clean shapes without sticking or tearing.