# What Goes In:
→ Cookies
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing
08 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
09 - 2 large egg whites or 1/4 cup pasteurized liquid egg whites
10 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
11 - Gel food coloring (various colors, as desired)
→ Decorations
12 - Sprinkles, sanding sugar, edible pearls (optional)
# How to Make It:
01 - Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl, then set aside.
02 - Using an electric mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and blend until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
05 - Divide the dough into two halves, shape each into a flat disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll chilled dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a mitten-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
08 - Place cookies onto prepared baking sheets spaced 1 inch apart.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - Whisk together powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice at low speed until smooth and glossy. Divide icing and tint with gel food colors as desired.
11 - Apply royal icing to cooled cookies using piping bags and tips. Add optional sprinkles and edible decorations. Allow icing to fully set before serving or displaying.
