Snowflake Sugar Cookies
Delightful snowflake-shaped cookies with a crisp edge and soft center, topped with royal icing, perfect for winter celebrations.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder Adds lightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Infuses richness.
- 1 1/2 cups sugar Sparkling like freshly fallen snow.
- 1 large egg Adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Offers warm aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) Adds a delightful nutty nuance.
For the Royal Icing
- 1 large egg white or 2 tablespoons meringue powder For delicate icing.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Sweet and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice Brightens flavors.
- Food coloring (optional for decoration) Perfect for adding color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) to the butter-sugar mix and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet batter, mixing until the dough forms a smooth ball.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
- Place the cookies on the lined baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Icing
- For the royal icing, whisk the egg white or meringue powder with lemon juice until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- If desired, divide icing into bowls and add food coloring for decoration.
- Use a piping bag to create snowflake patterns on the cookies.
- Allow icing to dry completely before serving or packaging.
Notes
Be patient when decorating! Allow the icing to set thoroughly before serving to ensure your designs remain intact. Consider healthier alternatives like whole wheat flour or sugar substitutes.