Name: Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: PT-488317H10M53S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; 1 cup sugar (optional: add ¼–½ cup more if not using icing); ½ teaspoon sea salt; 2 eggs; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 cups all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup cornstarch (can reduce to ¼ cup for slightly softer cookies); ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, optional

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Nothing says cozy autumn vibes quite like the aroma of warm, buttery cookies baking in the oven. These Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies are soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for decorating with icing to match the colors of fall. Imagine crisp fall air, pumpkin-scented candles, and the smell of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen—it’s pure magic. Trust me, once you start cutting out these little leaves, you won’t be able to stop!

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Recipe Origin

Cut-out cookies have been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often made for holidays and special occasions. These fall-themed cookies are inspired by the beauty of autumn leaves—golden yellows, burnt oranges, and deep reds. They’re simple to make, fun to decorate, and perfect for sharing with friends, family, or neighbors.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowl (large)
Hand or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Rolling pin
Leaf-shaped cookie cutters (or any fall shapes you like)
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Cooling rack
Spatula

Why You’ll Love Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies

Versatile: Great for fall gatherings, parties, or just an afternoon baking session with kids.

Budget-Friendly: Uses basic pantry staples like butter, sugar, and flour—no fancy ingredients needed.

Quick and Easy: Dough comes together quickly, and you can bake multiple batches in under an hour.

Customizable: Add a dash of nutmeg, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice for extra warmth. Decorate with colored icing, sprinkles, or leave them plain.

Crowd-Pleasing: Adults and kids alike love a soft, buttery cookie that’s just sweet enough and perfect for decorating.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This gives the cookies a tender texture.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes makes it easier to roll out and cut clean shapes.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Cool Completely Before Decorating: If you plan to ice the cookies, let them cool completely to prevent melting.

Ingredients in Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies

Here’s what makes these autumn treats so special:

Butter: The star ingredient, giving richness, flavor, and a tender texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight crisp edge. Optional extra sugar can be sprinkled on cookies not iced.

Eggs: Bind the dough together while adding moisture.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, inviting aroma that complements the buttery flavor.

Flour: Provides structure. All-purpose flour works perfectly here.

Cornstarch: Softens the cookies and gives them a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Sea Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

Nutmeg (Optional): A pinch adds a subtle warmth that evokes cozy fall memories.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s create these adorable autumn treats:

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Proper oven temperature ensures even baking and a slight golden edge.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This is the foundation for soft, tender cookies.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sea salt, and optional nutmeg. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

Chill the Dough: Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough hold its shape when cutting.

Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.

Cut Out Shapes: Use leaf-shaped cookie cutters (or other fall-themed shapes) to cut out cookies. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are just beginning to turn golden. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.

Cool Completely: Transfer cookies to a cooling rack. Let cool completely before decorating with icing or leaving plain.

Serve and Enjoy: Arrange on a festive platter or package as gifts for friends and neighbors. The buttery aroma and soft texture are irresistible!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 24-30 cookies
Calories per serving: Approx. 150-170
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Total Time: 30-45 minutes (plus chilling)

How to Serve Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies

Decorating Ideas: Use royal icing, colored sugar, or edible markers to bring fall colors to life.

Pairings: Serve with hot apple cider, pumpkin spice latte, or tea for the ultimate fall treat.

Gift-Friendly: Package in cellophane bags or decorative tins to share the autumn spirit.

Party-Ready: These cookies are perfect for fall-themed parties, Thanksgiving dessert tables, or cozy afternoon gatherings.

Presentation matters! Arrange on a seasonal platter, sprinkle edible glitter or sanding sugar, and watch everyone admire your fall-themed masterpieces.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Baked cookies store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough or baked cookies for up to 2 months.

Variations to Try

Spiced Up: Add cinnamon, ginger, or allspice for warm autumn flavors.
Chocolate Dip: Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.
Nutty Version: Add finely chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture.
Mini Cookies: Make smaller leaf shapes for bite-sized treats.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Measure ingredients in advance for faster assembly.

Extra Soft Cookies: Reduce cornstarch slightly for a softer texture.

Icing Fun: Royal icing or glaze works beautifully for colorful leaf designs.

Use Fresh Fall Colors: Red, orange, yellow, and brown icing bring the cookies to life.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use salted butter?
A1: Yes, but reduce the added sea salt slightly.

Q2: Can I skip the nutmeg?
A2: Absolutely! It’s optional but adds a subtle warm flavor.

Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
A3: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Texture may vary slightly.

Q4: How thick should I roll the dough?
A4: About 1/4-inch thick works best for even baking.

Q5: Can I decorate while cookies are warm?
A5: It’s best to let them cool completely to avoid melting the icing.

Q6: Can I use other extracts instead of vanilla?
A6: Almond or maple extract work nicely for a subtle flavor twist.

Q7: How do I store decorated cookies?
A7: Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Add parchment layers if stacking.

Q8: Can I freeze the dough?
A8: Yes! Freeze in a disk or log shape. Thaw slightly before rolling and cutting.

Q9: Can I make cutouts with other shapes?
A9: Absolutely! Pumpkins, acorns, or even stars are great alternatives.

Q10: Can I make these cookies vegan?
A10: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and eggs with flax eggs. Results may differ slightly.

Conclusion

These Fall Leaf Cut Out Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience. Soft, buttery, and slightly spiced, they evoke the warmth and beauty of autumn. Perfect for decorating, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of cider, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Gather your ingredients, roll out the dough, and watch the leaves of fall come to life in cookie form. There’s nothing quite like the smell, the flavor, and the joy of baking these cozy autumn treats!