Cookie-cutter (noun)

1. A device used to cut out shapes in dough.
2. A standardized or mass-produced item that has no unique characteristics.
3. A mold or template for cutting or shaping something.

Origin:

The phrase "cookie-cutter" is a metaphor, that refers to a tool used to cut out shapes from dough. the phrase is first recorded in the early 20th century. .

Examples:

1. She used the cookie-cutter to make the gingerbread men.
2. The houses in the development were all cookie-cutter designs.
3. He made a cookie-cutter to shape the candles.
4. The cookie-cutter approach to education was not effective.
5. The cookie-cutter design of the phone case made it easy to mass produce.