# What You 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)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, mixing until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing 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 - 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 the prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are just golden. Cool on baking 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 desired food coloring.
11 - Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing and optional sprinkles or edible pearls. Allow icing to set fully before display.
