Halloween Sugar Cookies

Soft, buttery Halloween sugar cookies made with powdered sugar and vanilla, cut into spooky shapes, and decorated with royal icing or frosting.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 10

Total Time 1 35

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24 cookies

Ingredients

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup 1½ sticks unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon almond extract optional

Instructions

Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
Beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Mix in the egg, vanilla, and optional almond extract.
Gradually add the flour mixture until a soft dough forms.
Divide dough into two discs, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness.
Cut into Halloween shapes and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just set.
Cool completely before decorating.

Notes

Chill dough for at least 1 hour.
Don't overwork the dough.
Roll to approximately ¼ inch thick.
Use parchment paper rather than a greased baking sheet.
Use gel food coloring for strong Halloween colors.
Royal icing is best for detailed designs.
Cream cheese frosting is easier for casual decorating.