Cookie cutter facts for kids

Some simple cutout cookie cutters

A cookie cutter is a handy tool used to cut out cookie dough into fun and specific shapes. In America, we call them cookie cutters, but in places like the UK, they are known as biscuit cutters. People often use them for special holidays to make cookies in shapes like stars or hearts. They are also great for making many cookies at once, ensuring they all look neat and the same size. Besides cookies, these tools can even shape things like tea sandwiches!

Types of Cookie Cutters

Cutting Christmas Cookies

Cookie cutters come in different styles, each designed for a specific way of shaping dough. They are usually made from materials like metal (copper, tin, stainless steel, aluminum) or plastic.

Cutout Cookie Cutters

• What they are: These are the most common type. They are simple shapes that you press into flat cookie dough.
• How they work: You roll out your cookie dough, then press the cutter down to create the outline of the shape.
• Tip: To stop the dough from sticking, you can dip the cutter in flour or sugar before each use.

Detail Imprint Cookie Cutters

• What they are: Similar to cutout cutters, but these do more than just cut the shape.
• How they work: When you press them into the dough, they not only cut the outline but also leave a special design or pattern on the surface of the cookie.

Cookie Molds

• What they are: These are often made from wood, ceramic, or plastic. Some of the oldest cookie molds are called Springerle molds.
• How they work: Instead of cutting, you press the dough into the mold. The mold has a design carved into it, which then gets pressed onto the cookie, creating a raised pattern.
• Examples: These molds can be flat disks or even shaped like a rolling pin. They are popular for making traditional Scottish shortbread.

Cookie Presses

• What they are: Also known as a cookie gun, a cookie press helps you make many cookies quickly.
• How they work: You load cookie dough into the press. Then, you push a handle or button, and the dough is squeezed out onto a baking sheet in fancy shapes.
• Why they're useful: They make it easy to create detailed cookie shapes that would be hard to do by hand.

Cookie Cutting Sheets

• What they are: These are large plastic sheets, about the size of a baking pan, with many cookie cutter shapes built right into them.
• How they work: You press the entire sheet onto a large piece of rolled-out dough. This cuts out dozens of cookies all at once.
• Benefits: They are great for making a lot of cookies very fast. They also help make sure all the cookies are the same shape and are spaced perfectly on the baking sheet.

Images for kids

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  A simple cookie cutter.

See also

In Spanish: Cortador de galletas para niños