Delicious & Healthier Whole Grain Cut Out Sugar Cookies for Every Occasion
Do you love the charm and deliciousness of frosted sugar cookies but wish for a more wholesome option? This incredible whole grain cut out sugar cookies recipe offers a delightful solution! It’s not only simple to make but also provides a healthier alternative to traditional sugar cookies, incorporating nutritious whole wheat flour, hearty oats, and the rich, caramel-like flavor of brown sugar. Imagine the joy of creating beautiful, chewy, homemade whole grain cookies that are more nutritious yet just as fun to decorate with your favorite icing for any celebration – holidays, baby showers, birthdays, or just a special afternoon treat. Your family and friends will absolutely adore these wholesome, flavorful cookies!
When I think of holiday cookies, my mind often conjures up images of rich, chocolatey delights with an undeniable “wow” factor, and recipes that aren’t overly complicated. While this whole grain cut out sugar cookies recipe might not fit that exact description, it possesses an entirely different, yet equally appealing, charm.
These cookies offer a truly unique and delicious flavor profile, thanks to the harmonious blend of whole wheat, oats, and brown sugar. This combination creates a depth of flavor that beautifully complements any frosting you choose to add. Unlike some fragile sugar cookies, these are wonderfully chewy when rolled a bit thicker, boasting crisp edges that hold their shape perfectly. This makes them ideal for both intricate decorating and simple enjoyment.
What’s even better is their versatility. If you’re not in the mood for frosting, these healthy cut out sugar cookies are just as delightful with a simple sprinkling of cinnamon sugar or coarse sugar before baking. Or, enjoy them plain alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting, wholesome treat!
Beyond their taste and texture, cut out sugar cookies hold a special place in many family holiday traditions. They’re not just a dessert; they’re an activity, a memory-making opportunity, and a canvas for creativity. As my children grew up, their favorite part was always the decorating. I loved knowing that these heartier whole grain cookies offered more nutritional value and used less sugar compared to standard sugar roll-out cookie recipes. This made them my absolute go-to choice for all our cookie decorating sessions.
I genuinely hope these delightful, healthier cut out sugar cookies become a cherished part of your baking traditions, too! They prove that healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun.
Essential Ingredients for Your Whole Grain Cut Out Cookies
To create this amazing whole grain cut out sugar cookies recipe, you’ll need a selection of simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the unique flavor and satisfying texture of these healthier treats.
Ingredient Notes & Smart Substitutions
- Flour: The star of these healthy sugar cookies is whole wheat pastry flour. This type of flour is milled from a softer wheat variety, resulting in a lower protein content than regular whole wheat flour. This makes it perfect for cookies and pastries, yielding a tender crumb while still providing all the fiber and nutrition of whole wheat. If whole wheat pastry flour isn’t available, you can substitute it with half regular whole wheat flour and half unbleached all-purpose flour for a similar balance. Alternatively, white whole wheat flour is another excellent choice, offering a lighter color and milder flavor than traditional whole wheat but with the same nutritional benefits.
- Oats: We call for old-fashioned rolled oats, which you’ll then blend until they’re finely chopped, leaving just a few larger pieces. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in these oatmeal cookies, as it helps the oats integrate smoothly into the dough without making the cookies too crumbly. If you have quick oats, you can use them, but blend them less, as they are already partially processed. Avoid using oat flour, as it absorbs liquid differently and would require significant adjustments to the recipe, which hasn’t been tested. The oats contribute a wonderful chewiness and a boost of fiber to these wholesome cookies.
- Butter: I typically use regular salted butter in my baking. If you prefer to use unsalted butter, simply increase the salt in the recipe by 1/8 teaspoon to compensate for the difference. The fat content in butter is essential for tenderness and flavor in these cut out sugar cookies.
- Brown Sugar: The rich molasses notes of brown sugar are a fantastic complement to the whole grains in this recipe, enhancing the overall depth of flavor. However, if you prefer, you can certainly use regular granulated cane sugar. For an alternative with a slightly lower glycemic index and a similar caramel-like taste, coconut sugar also works beautifully in these healthy sugar cookies.
How to Craft Your Whole Grain Cut Out Sugar Cookies
Creating these delicious and wholesome cookies is a straightforward process. Below are some helpful visual instructions and tips to guide you. For the complete, detailed instructions with exact measurements, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page.
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the wet and dry ingredients (as specified in the recipe card) and stir until they are thoroughly mixed and the dough comes together. It’s important to mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies. Once mixed, divide the dough into two pieces, wrap each in wax paper, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This chilling period is crucial; it allows the ingredients to meld, the oats to absorb moisture, and the butter to firm up, making the dough much easier to roll and cut without sticking or spreading excessively during baking.
Step 2: Roll and Cut Your Shapes
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough to an even thickness of about 1/4″ to 1/3″. I personally prefer these whole grain cookies a bit thicker than traditional sugar cookies because it enhances their chewy texture and allows the rich flavors to truly shine. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Gather any dough scraps, gently press them together, and re-roll as needed to use up all the dough. Make sure not to overwork the scraps, or the cookies might become tough.
Expert Recipe Tips for Perfect Whole Grain Cookies
TIP 1: Choosing Your Cookie Cutters Wisely. Due to the inclusion of oats, this whole grain cookie dough has a slightly rougher texture than a very smooth, traditional sugar cookie dough. To ensure the best results and prevent frustration, I recommend using fairly simple, robust cookie cutters. Shapes like stars, trees, candy canes, bells, and classic round or square ornaments work wonderfully. Avoid cutters with very thin, delicate protrusions like legs, antlers, or tiny intricate details, as these smaller pieces can sometimes break off or distort when cutting or transferring the cookies. If you do wish to use more detailed cutters, try dipping them in flour between each cut and pressing firmly and evenly. A small offset spatula can also be very helpful for transferring delicate shapes.
Tip 2: Delicious Alternatives to Frosting. While these decorating cookies are fantastic with icing, they are equally delightful on their own. If you plan to serve them unfrosted, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar or coarse sugar (like turbinado or sparkling sanding sugar) to the cookies directly on the baking sheet before they go into the oven. This adds a beautiful sparkle and an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the brown sugar and oats. Of course, leaving them plain is also a perfectly delicious option!
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Bake your whole grain cut out cookies for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a light golden brown. For thinner cookies, 8 minutes might be sufficient. The slight browning at the edges indicates they are perfectly baked, ensuring that desirable chewy texture in the center. Once baked, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack and allow them to cool completely. This is a critical step before storing or frosting them, as warm cookies can melt frosting or become soggy if stored too soon.
Step 4: Decorate (or Don’t!)
Once the cookies are completely cool, it’s time for the fun part – frosting, if desired! These versatile whole grain cut out sugar cookies pair wonderfully with almost any kind of icing. Whether you opt for a simple white vanilla glaze for a classic look, a vibrant royal icing for intricate designs, or a rich buttercream for a creamy finish, they will taste fantastic. The heartier dough of these cookies, in my opinion, holds up better to frosting and decorations than many traditional sugar cookies, and it seems to maintain its crispness longer, making them excellent for gifting or storing. Let your creativity soar and enjoy the process of making these cookies truly your own!
Storage Solutions for Your Whole Grain Cut Out Cookies
Proper storage ensures your delicious healthy cut out sugar cookies stay fresh and delightful for as long as possible.
- Room temperature: Store unfrosted or frosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To keep frosted cookies from sticking, place a piece of waxed paper or parchment paper between layers.
- Freezer: These cookies are fantastic for freezing!
- Unfrosted Cookies: When unfrosted, they freeze perfectly. Simply place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature and then frost whenever you’re ready to decorate or serve. This is an excellent way to prepare for holiday baking or upcoming celebrations.
- Frosted Cookies: You can also freeze frosted cookies, but a little extra care is needed. First, arrange the frosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm (about 30-60 minutes). Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container, placing sheets of waxed paper between layers to protect the frosting. This prevents the frosting from smudging or sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whole Grain Cut Out Sugar Cookies
- Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! This dough is very forgiving. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days before rolling and baking. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic or wax paper to prevent it from drying out. You might need to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling if it’s too firm.
- Why are my cookies spreading too much? Several factors can cause cookies to spread. The most common reasons for these cut out sugar cookies are warm dough (always chill!), butter that is too soft or melted, or too much leavening agent. Ensure your butter is at room temperature but still firm, and don’t skip the refrigeration step for the dough.
- What if I don’t have whole wheat pastry flour? As mentioned in the ingredient notes, you can use a mix of half regular whole wheat flour and half unbleached all-purpose flour. White whole wheat flour is another great option. The key is to find a balance that provides whole grain benefits without making the cookies too dense.
- How thick should I roll the dough? For the best chewy texture and to allow the rich flavors of the oats and brown sugar to come through, I recommend rolling the dough 1/4″ to 1/3″ thick. Thicker cookies tend to stay chewier longer. If you prefer a crisper cookie, you can roll them slightly thinner, but keep an eye on baking time as it will be shorter.
- What kind of frosting works best for decorating? These whole grain decorating cookies are versatile! A simple vanilla glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract is quick and easy. For more intricate designs, royal icing (made with meringue powder) provides a hard, smooth finish. A classic buttercream frosting is also delicious and offers a softer, creamier texture.
Are you ready to embrace a new, wholesome tradition for your roll-out cookies? I am confident that these healthy cut out sugar cookies will become a new favorite in your home!
Other Fun & Delicious Cookie Recipes To Try
- Espresso Walnut Shortbread Cookies with Dark Chocolate Filling
- Peanut Butter Brownie Sandwich Cookies
- Grain Free Almond Chocolate Truffle Bars
I hope you thoroughly enjoy making and sharing this whole grain cut out sugar cookies recipe! If you make them, please be sure to leave a recipe rating and comment so I know how much you loved them!
Whole Grain Cut Out Cookies
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- Simple cookie cutters
- Cookie sheets with liners or parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup salted butter
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar or coconut sugar for a healthier option
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats chopped fine until just a few large pieces remain
- 2¼ cups whole wheat pastry flour or whole wheat white flour or half regular whole wheat and half all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- optional: frosting, cinnamon-sugar, or coarse sugar for topping
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until thoroughly smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the finely chopped oats, whole wheat pastry flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until the dough just comes together and is well combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the cookie dough into two equal pieces. Flatten each piece slightly into a disc, wrap tightly in wax paper or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of 20 minutes (or up to 2-3 days). This chilling is essential for easy handling and preventing spread.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare 2 baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Take one chilled dough disc from the refrigerator at a time. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to a thickness of about 1/4″ to 1/3″. I prefer these cookies rolled a bit thicker for a chewy texture. Using simple cookie cutters, cut out your desired shapes and carefully place them on the prepared cookie sheets, leaving a small space between each (these cookies do not spread much). Re-roll any dough scraps as needed until all the dough is used. (If you’re not frosting, now is the time to sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar or coarse sugar.)
- Bake the cookies for approximately 8-9 minutes. For thicker cookies, 9 minutes will yield crisp edges and a chewy center. If you rolled them thinner, they might only need 8 minutes. The edges should just begin to turn light golden.
- Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Ensure they are fully cooled before decorating or storing to prevent frosting from melting.
Notes
- Room temperature: Store these whole grain cookies in airtight containers for 2-3 days. For frosted cookies, separate layers with waxed paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezer: These cookies freeze exceptionally well, especially when unfrosted!
- Unfrosted: Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature and then frost as desired.
- Frosted: To freeze frosted cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 30-60 minutes). Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container with waxed paper between layers to protect the decorations. They will last for several weeks.
Nutrition
This recipe is adapted from a fantastic King Arthur Flour recipe.
This article is proudly presented as part of our special 8 Weeks of Christmas Ideas series. Throughout November and December, leading up to the 24th, you’ll discover a wealth of resources including delicious recipes, thoughtful gift ideas, clever time-saving tips, cherished traditions, and much more to make your holidays truly special.