New to Baking: make cut-out cookie dough now, cook later?

[Anonymous]

Hi. I'm new to baking. Is there a "basic" cut-out cookie recipe I can put together one morning but then not actually cut out and bake the cookies until either that night or the next day?

Any suggestions (and tips) welcome. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

Yes! In fact dough for cut-out cookies should always be refrigerated before cutting them.

Just Google "sugar cookie recipe". It's pretty basic and not too difficult to mess up. Put it together in the morning, roll it into a ball or thick disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for several hours. Take it out and give it about 10 minutes to warm up. Then roll it out on a floured surface to cut the cookies. Follow the recipe for cookie times.

[Anonymous]

You pretty much have to for sugar cookies! You have to let the fats get solid again (or whatever the pastry chemistry is )

We made these for Christmas: they were a success: http://www.theyummylife.com/Sour_Cream_Sugar_Cookies

Make sure to flour your work surface well, otherwise the dough will stick to your countertops.

[Anonymous]

What others said. You want the dough cold anyhow.

[Anonymous]

OP here - thanks everyone! I think I'm going to do this tonight and then have the kids make cookies tomorrow afternoon. Should be fun.

thanks again!