It all starts with a good sugar cookie recipe.
And if the basic cookie is not delicious, it doesn't really matter what it looks like.
I've been using the following recipe for many years. I think it's "secret ingredient" is the sour cream. It holds its shape perfectly and tastes the best of all I've had.
CookieCrazie Sugar Cookies
1 cup (227 grams) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups (300 grams) sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 cup (125 grams) sour cream
4 3/4 cups (600 grams) all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
Cream butter and sugar. Beat in egg, vanilla, & sour cream. Blend in dry ingredients.
No refrigeration of dough is necessary.
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Roll dough to desired thickness. Cut into shapes.
Place cookies on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake approx 20 minutes.
Yield: 20-25 medium cookies