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Perfect Black Cat Sugar Cookies

perfect black cat sugar cookies - featured image

These spooky yet sophisticated Halloween sugar cookies feature a buttery, chewy dough and intricate black cat decorations. They are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any festive occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Black gel food coloring (e.g., Americolor Super Black)
  • White icing or royal icing
  • Yellow or green gel food coloring
  • Black sprinkles or edible markers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
  4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed until a dough forms.
  6. Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours).
  7. Roll one disc of dough out to 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out cat shapes using a cookie cutter.
  8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each. Re-roll scraps to cut more cookies.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are barely golden but centers still look soft.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Mix black gel food coloring into a portion of icing to create the cat body. Pipe to fill the shape.
  12. Tint remaining white icing with yellow or green gel coloring for pupils. Use a toothpick or fine tip to dot eyes.
  13. Add whiskers with white icing. Let icing dry completely before serving.

Notes

Chilling the dough is non-negotiable to prevent spreading. Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to maintain dough consistency. Ensure cookies are completely cool before icing to prevent melting. For gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and a flax egg.

Nutrition

Keywords: Halloween cookies, black cat sugar cookies, easy Halloween treats, sugar cookie recipe, holiday baking, spooky desserts