If you’ve been craving a sweet, buttery treat that you can whip up in no time, then you have to try these Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill). This recipe is a game changer for cookie lovers who want that perfect soft yet sturdy texture without the long chilling wait. Imagine rolling out festive shapes, popping them right into the oven, and having perfectly tender cookies in just minutes. These cookies deliver on classic buttery flavor with a delicate crumb that melts in your mouth, making them an instant favorite whether it’s a busy weeknight or last-minute celebration.

Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be pantry staples, but each plays a vital role in creating the delicious flavor and texture of your Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill). From the creamy butter that adds richness to the balance of sugars for sweetness and structure, every component is essential.

1 cup unsalted butter (227g): Softened butter gives the dough moisture and that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
1/2 cup powdered sugar (53g): Powdered sugar helps create a smooth, tender crumb and enhances sweetness without grittiness.
1/2 cup white sugar (100g): Adds a balanced sweetness and slight crunch to your cookies.
1 egg (large): Acts as a binder to hold the dough together and contributes to the cookie’s softness.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Boosts the flavor with warm, aromatic notes that make each bite irresistible.
3 1/2 cups all purpose flour (420g): Provides structure and the right firmness for cut-out shapes to hold beautifully.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Leavens the dough just enough to keep cookies tender without puffing them up too much.
1/2 tsp kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors working together.

How to Make Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill)

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Trays

Preheat the oven to 350° F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking or burning underneath.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter and both sugars. Mix on medium speed for about two minutes until you get a thick, creamy paste that signals you’re off to a great start with rich flavor and perfect sweetness.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides to incorporate everything evenly. Then add one large egg and two teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing again for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and combined. This step adds moisture and that beautiful aromatic note we all love in sugar cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Switch your mixer to low speed and gradually add in the flour, baking powder, and salt. This could take up to a minute because you want everything thoroughly mixed without overworking the dough. Proper mixing ensures a tender yet sturdy cookie that holds its shape well.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Use your hands to bring it together into a smooth round ball—it should feel firm but not sticky. This is your canvas for cookie magic!

Step 6: Roll and Cut

Roll the dough out to about a quarter-inch thickness. Using your favorite cookie cutters, press out shapes and place them on your parchment-lined sheets. Leave just half an inch to one inch between cookies because these won’t spread much, meaning you can fit plenty on each tray.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake your cookies for 10 to 13 minutes depending on thickness. You’ll know they are done when the bottoms turn a lovely light golden brown. This timing preserves their tender texture with a slight crisp around the edges.

Step 8: Decorate and Enjoy

Repeat rolling and cutting with the leftover dough scraps to get every bit out of the batch. Once cooled, decorate as you like–royal icing works wonderfully to add that festive touch and extra sweetness.

How to Serve Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill)

Garnishes

Simple royal icing is a classic choice to dress up these Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill). You can also sprinkle colored sugars or edible glitter for celebration-worthy sparkle. Fresh berries alongside add a pop of color and tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet cookie.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies with a warm mug of spiced tea, hot cocoa, or a glass of cold milk to complement their sugary richness. A light fruit salad also balances the indulgence, making your cookie plate feel thoughtfully curated and irresistible.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies on decorative platters or stack them with parchment paper between layers in a festive tin for gifting. You can also thread ribbons through larger cut-outs to create edible holiday ornaments, turning your cookies into stunning edible décor that doubles as a tasty treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them nice and soft while maintaining their flavor—perfect if you want to enjoy them over several days.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully, which is great for planning ahead. Arrange cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers. They can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing their wonderful taste or texture.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy cookies warm, simply pop them in a 300° F oven for 5 minutes straight from the container or let them thaw to room temperature. Just enough heat revives their soft texture and releases that buttery aroma, making them taste freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the salt in the recipe slightly since salted butter will add extra sodium. This helps avoid an overly salty cookie and keeps the balance just right.

Why is this recipe called ‘no chill’?

Because this dough doesn’t require refrigeration before rolling or baking. Most cut-out cookie recipes need chilling to firm up, but these cookies come together quickly, perfect for last-minute baking.

Can I add flavors other than vanilla?

Definitely! Almond extract, lemon zest, or even a splash of orange extract can add a fun twist. Just swap or combine with vanilla to keep that delicious cookie base intact.

Will my cookies keep their shape well during baking?

Yes, the dough is formulated to hold its shape nicely without spreading, which means your cut-outs look sharp and defined straight from the oven.

How should I roll out the dough to avoid sticking?

Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, but don’t overdo it. Too much flour can dry out the dough. If it gets sticky, a brief rest or chilling for 10 minutes can help without lengthy waits.

Final Thoughts

Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill) are truly a baker’s dream come true: buttery, soft, and perfectly shaped without the fuss of chilling dough. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just because, this recipe is a terrific way to brighten any day with a homemade touch. Give it a try and watch these cookies become your go-to sweet treat in no time.

Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies (no chill) Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 22 reviews

Author: Ethan
Total Time: 25-28 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 medium-sized cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Quick Cut-Out Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that require no chilling time, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions. Soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened, they hold their shape beautifully, ideal for decorating with royal icing or enjoying plain.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter (227g), softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar (53g)
1/2 cup white sugar (100g)
1 large egg
2 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

3 1/2 cups all purpose flour (420g)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two sheet trays with parchment paper. Set aside to ensure a smooth baking process.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and white sugar. Mix on medium speed for 2 minutes until the mixture forms a thick, smooth paste.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Scrape down the sides of the bowl, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 30 seconds to incorporate well.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the all purpose flour, which may take about 1 minute to fully blend in. Then add the baking powder and kosher salt, mixing for another 30 seconds to 1 minute until the dough is combined and smooth.
Form Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a round ball. The dough should feel smooth and not sticky to the touch.
Roll and Cut: Roll the dough out to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut shapes out of the dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Position cookies about 1/2 inch to 1 inch apart—they won’t spread much during baking.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes, depending on thickness. Cookies are done when the bottoms begin to turn a slight golden brown.
Repeat and Decorate: Collect the remaining dough scraps, reroll, and cut out more cookies. Once cooled, decorate the cookies with royal icing as desired.

Notes

No chilling time required—ready to bake immediately after mixing.
Ensure butter is softened, not melted, for best texture.
Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.
Decorate with royal icing or enjoy plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
If dough is too soft, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to make cutting easier.
Use parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-13 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 28g)
Calories: 140 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 90 mg
Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: sugar cookies, quick cookie recipe, cut-out cookies, no chill sugar cookies, easy cookie recipe, butter cookies, holiday cookies