# What you'll need:
→ 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 (assorted colors)
→ Decorations
12 - Sprinkles, sanding sugar, edible pearls (optional)
# Directions:
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, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
05 - Divide dough in half, flatten 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 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-inch thickness; use a mitten-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
08 - Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice on low speed until smooth and glossy; divide and tint with desired food coloring.
11 - Apply royal icing and optional decorations to cooled cookies; allow icing to set fully before serving or displaying.
