Cookie cutter

Cookie Cutter

A cookie cutter is a tool used to cut out cookie dough in a particular shape. These tools are essential in baking and are used to create uniform shapes and designs in cookies, biscuits, and other baked goods. Cookie cutters can be made from various materials, including metal, plastic, and wood.

A metal cookie cutter being used to cut out dough.

Types of Cookie Cutters

Cookie cutters come in several types, each serving a specific purpose in the baking process:

Outline Cutters

Outline cutters are the most common type of cookie cutter. They are typically made from metal or plastic and are used to cut out the outer shape of the cookie. These cutters are pressed into rolled-out dough to create shapes such as stars, hearts, and animals.

Detail Imprint Cutters

Detail imprint cutters not only cut out the shape of the cookie but also imprint details onto the surface of the dough. These cutters are often used for more intricate designs, such as holiday-themed cookies or cookies with patterns.

Cookie Molds

Cookie molds are used to shape dough into three-dimensional forms. Unlike outline cutters, molds can create more complex shapes and are often used for traditional cookies like springerle or speculaas.

A traditional cookie mold used for making crespells.

Materials

Cookie cutters can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages:

• Metal: Metal cookie cutters are durable and can create sharp, clean edges. They are often made from stainless steel or tinplate.
• Plastic: Plastic cutters are lightweight and often come in a wider variety of shapes and colors. They are also safer for children to use.
• Wood: Wooden cookie molds are traditional and often used for specific types of cookies. They can be intricately carved to create detailed designs.

Usage

To use a cookie cutter, the baker first rolls out the dough to an even thickness. The cutter is then pressed into the dough to cut out the desired shape. Excess dough is removed, and the shaped dough is transferred to a baking sheet for baking.

History

The use of cookie cutters dates back to ancient times when bakers used simple tools to shape dough. Over the centuries, cookie cutters have evolved in design and material, reflecting changes in technology and baking trends.

Related Pages

• Baking
• Cookie
• Biscuit
• Pastry