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Halloween Sugar Cookies

These Halloween sugar cookies are buttery, crisp-edged treats that are perfect for decorating. They’re made with a simple dough that becomes tender and slightly golden when baked, serving as a festive canvas for spooky designs. Their forgiving nature makes them ideal for both novice bakers and kids to enjoy decorating with colorful icing and fun shapes.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Rolling pin
  • Cookie cutters
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling Rack

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture; beat until just combined, keeping the mixture smooth and glossy.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated and a soft dough forms.
  4. Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a flat disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the dough relax and become firm.
  5. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove one dough disc from the fridge, and on a lightly floured surface, roll it out to about 0.5 cm thickness. Keep the dough cold to prevent sticking and spreading.
  7. Use Halloween-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough, pressing firmly to ensure clean edges.
  8. Transfer the cut-out cookies carefully onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for expansion.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  10. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  11. Decorate the cooled cookies with icing, sprinkles, or other fun toppings to create your spooky Halloween designs. Enjoy these festive treats!

Notes

For best results, keep the dough cold and avoid overworking it to maintain tender, crisp edges. Get creative with your decorations for a fun, festive touch!