Description
Indulge in the classic holiday flavor of buttery, soft sugar cookies topped with a silky smooth royal icing. These delightful treats are perfect for Christmas, cookie exchanges, or any time you crave a sweet, festive dessert.
Ingredients
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 3 tablespoons meringue powder
– 5 tablespoons water
Instructions
1. – Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. – In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
4. – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. – Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
6. – Place the cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. – Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden on the edges. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. – In a large bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar and meringue powder. Gradually add the water and beat on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form, about 5-7 minutes.
9. – Pipe or spread the royal icing onto the cooled cookies. Decorate with sprinkles, if desired.
10. – Let the iced cookies sit at room temperature for at least 2 hours to allow the icing to set.
Notes
– For a thicker icing, add less water. For a thinner icing, add more water.
– Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
– Freeze the undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate before serving.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American