Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure and texture.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly and become light and fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.

Vegan butter: Provides a rich, buttery flavor and helps create a tender texture.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie's structure and texture.

Unsweetened applesauce: Acts as a binder and adds moisture, replacing the need for eggs.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

When rolling out the dough, make sure to lightly flour both the surface and the rolling pin to prevent sticking. If the dough becomes too soft or sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle. This will help you achieve an even thickness and cleaner cuts with your cookie cutters.

• All-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cookies denser.

• Baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.

• Salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor profile and is less processed.

• Vegan butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar fat content and texture, though it will add a slight coconut flavor.

• Granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a caramel-like flavor.

• Unsweetened applesauce - Substitute with mashed banana: Mashed banana can provide similar moisture and binding properties, though it will add a banana flavor.

• Vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the cookies.

• Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps them from becoming soggy.

• Place the cookies in an airtight container. You can use a cookie tin or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. If you have multiple layers of cookies, separate them with sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Store the container at room temperature. These cookies will stay fresh for up to one week when stored properly.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once the cookies are frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. Again, use parchment paper to separate layers if needed.

• Label the container or bag with the date. Frozen cookies can be stored for up to three months.

• To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.

• If you prefer to freeze the cookie dough instead of baked cookies, roll the dough into a log shape, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. Label and freeze for up to three months.

• When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Roll out, cut into shapes, and bake as directed in the recipe.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain their crispiness.

• If you prefer a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make them too soft.

• For a slightly unconventional method, use a toaster oven. Set it to a low temperature, around 300°F (150°C), and place the cookies inside for about 5 minutes. This method is great for small batches and keeps the cookies crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies in a single layer in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method is quick and helps retain the cookies' texture.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method is great for a small number of cookies and adds a slight crispiness.

• Oven: Used to bake the cookies at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Needed for combining the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt) and another for the wet ingredients (vegan butter, sugar, applesauce, vanilla).

• Whisk: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients.

• Electric mixer: Helpful for beating the vegan butter and sugar until creamy.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and applesauce.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Rolling pin: Needed to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.

• Floured surface: A clean, flat surface dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling it out.

• Cookie cutters: Used to cut the rolled-out dough into various shapes.

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet where the cut-out cookies are placed for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the cookies evenly after baking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This makes the process smoother and faster.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly and efficiently cream the vegan butter and sugar, saving you time and effort.

Chill the dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it for 15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.

Line baking sheets: Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to line your baking sheets. This reduces cleanup time and prevents sticking.