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Sugar cookies from Food Network’s Alton Brown

Alton Brown, known for his meticulous approach to cooking, created a sugar cookie that is easy to make and delicious. The result is a cookie that is buttery, slightly crisp on the edges, and tender in the center — perfect for decorating.

Gather your friends and family together this holiday season and try this recipe!

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup sugar

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon milk

Powdered sugar (for rolling out dough)

Directions

1. Prepare the dough

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the beaten egg and milk to the butter mixture, blending until combined.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until the dough comes together.
  • Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for easier rolling and better cookie shapes.

2. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

3. Sprinkle powdered sugar on your work surface and roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.

  • Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed.
  • Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 7 to 9 minutes, or until they just begin to turn golden at the edges.
  • Let cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Once cooled, the cookies are ready for decorating. These cookies pair perfectly with frosting, icing, or even dipped in melted chocolate!

Recipe and photo from Food Network and recommended by the author of this blog.