# Components:
→ Cookie Dough
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
05 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Royal Icing
08 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
09 - 1 large egg white or 2 tablespoons meringue powder mixed with 3 tablespoons water
10 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
11 - Food coloring (pink, yellow, purple, blue, etc.)
12 - Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)
# Directions:
01 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
02 - Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, mixing until fully combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined without overmixing.
05 - Divide the dough into two halves, flatten each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough disk to approximately 1/4 inch thickness.
08 - Use heart and star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each about 1 inch apart.
09 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Remove and cool completely on wire racks.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder mixture), and lemon juice together until smooth. Divide into separate bowls and tint with desired food coloring.
11 - Apply royal icing onto cooled cookies using piping bags or spatulas. Add sprinkles or edible glitter if desired. Allow the icing to fully set before serving.
