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Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing

Delightful floral butter cookies adorned with royal icing, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cookies
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour This fine powder creates the foundation for tender cookies.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar Imparts sweetness and ensures the desired texture.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Provides richness and buttery aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds a comforting depth to the cookies.
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional) Enhances flavor with a hint of nuttiness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and elevates flavors.
For the royal icing
  • 1 large egg white or 3 tablespoons meringue powder Essential for providing structure and shine.
  • 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar Ensures the icing hardens perfectly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice Brightens the flavor of the royal icing.
  • as needed gel food colors (pink, purple, green, yellow) To create vibrant colored icing for decoration.

Method
 

Preparation for the Cookies
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and salt. Mix until fully combined.
  4. Gradually add all-purpose flour, mixing gently until the dough begins to come together.
  5. Dust your work surface lightly with flour and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
  6. Use a flower-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and transfer them to the lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are light golden brown.
  8. Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack.
For the Royal Icing
  1. Whisk the egg white or mix meringue powder with water and lemon juice until frothy.
  2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar until smooth and stiff peaks form.
  3. Adjust consistency by adding water if necessary and divide icing into bowls to color.
  4. Fill piping bags with the colored icing for decorating.
Decorating the Cookies
  1. Outline the shape of the flowers with royal icing.
  2. Fill in petals, leaves, and centers with different colored icing.
  3. Allow the cookies to dry for at least 2-3 hours before serving.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for a light and fluffy texture. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain tenderness. Quality food coloring is crucial for vibrant decorations.