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Decorated sugar cookies with royal icing on a festive background

Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing

Delightful sugar cookies adorned with royal icing, perfect for any occasion that brings joy and connection.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sugar Cookies
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure butter is truly softened for easier mixing.
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 1 each egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Royal Icing
  • 2 each egg whites Or use 5 tablespoons of meringue powder as a substitute.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Food coloring (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this dry mixture aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt until well blended.
  5. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Dust the countertop with flour and roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thick.
  2. Use cookie cutters to cut into desired shapes.
  3. Place the cookies about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets.
  4. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are golden. Cool on wire racks.
Royal Icing Preparation
  1. Meanwhile, prepare the royal icing by beating the egg whites until frothy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice until stiff peaks form.
  3. Divide the icing into bowls and mix in food coloring as desired.
Decorating
  1. Use piping bags or brushes to decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing.
  2. Allow the icing to dry completely before serving (approximately 4-6 hours).

Notes

Use a toothpick to create fun designs in the royal icing. Store decorated cookies in an airtight container for up to one week; uniced cookies can be stored for longer. Try adding different flavors like cinnamon or lemon zest for a unique twist. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.