# What You Need:
→ Cookies
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (345 g)
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225 g)
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing
08 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted (360 g)
09 - 2 large egg whites or 1/4 cup pasteurized liquid egg whites
10 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
11 - Gel food coloring, assorted
→ Decorations
12 - Sprinkles, sanding sugar, edible pearls (optional)
# How To Make:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
02 - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
03 - Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
04 - Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until a smooth dough forms.
05 - Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Use a mitten-shaped cutter to cut cookies.
08 - Place cookies one inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice on low speed until smooth and glossy. Divide and tint with food coloring as desired.
11 - Apply royal icing and optional decorations to cooled cookies. Allow icing to set completely before serving or displaying.
