Step 1

In a large bowl, cream the sugar and butter at medium speed.

Step 2

Add the egg, water, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Blend until mixed well.

Step 3

Add the xanthan gum (if using) and flour. Mix at a low speed until well combined.

Step 4

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 5

Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.

Step 6

Roll out the dough onto a lightly floured surface, about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 7

Cut out the dough with selected cookie cutters, and place the cookies on the baking sheet. Make sure the cookies are not touching.

Step 8

Reform and roll out the scrap dough, then continue cutting more cookies.

Step 9

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the oven, and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the cookie sheet before removing them to a cooling rack. Cool completely before decorating.

Step 10

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.