Chocolate cut-out cookies decorated with simple piped frosting greetings. Chill the dough, cut it with a homemade card template, and make about 1 dozen cookies.
Use the recipe card below for the full ingredient list, step-by-step directions, and practical baking tips.
Helpful Tips
- Wrap the cardboard pattern in plastic so it stays clean and does not stick to the dough.
- Trim uneven edges while the cookies are still warm and pliable.
- Keep the frosting covered until you are ready to decorate so it does not dry out.
Greeting Card Cookies
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla in a large bowl until fluffy. Stir together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; add to the butter mixture and blend well. Cover and refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll.
- Cut a cardboard rectangle measuring 2 1/2 × 4 inches to use as a pattern. Wrap it in plastic wrap. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a cookie sheet.
- On a lightly floured board or between two pieces of wax paper, roll about half the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Place the pattern on the dough and cut around it with a sharp paring knife. Save the trimmings and reroll them for more cookies. Carefully transfer cutouts to the prepared cookie sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until set. Cool for 1 minute on the cookie sheet. If a cookie has lost its shape, trim irregular edges while it is still hot. Carefully transfer to wire racks and cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Make the decorative frosting: Beat the powdered sugar and shortening in a small bowl. Gradually add 2 tablespoons milk, beating until smooth and slightly thickened; add the remaining milk as needed. Cover until ready to use. Tint with food coloring if desired. Spoon into a pastry bag fitted with a decorating tip and pipe names or greetings onto the cookies. Decorate as desired.
Storage
Store completely cooled cookies or bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Estimated Nutrition
About 180 calories 8 g 25 g 2 g per serving; values are estimates and vary by portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large is the cookie pattern?
The cookbook pattern is a 2 1/2 × 4-inch rectangle.
How long should the dough chill?
Refrigerate it for about 1 hour, until firm enough to roll.
Can I color the frosting?
Yes. Divide it into bowls and tint with food coloring if desired.
Recipe adapted from the vintage cookbook pages supplied by the site owner; wording clarified for readability with AI assistance. Featured image: AI-generated food photography. Nutrition is estimated.