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Snowflake Sugar Cookies

Delightful snowflake-shaped cookies with buttery richness and sweet flavors, perfect for festive gatherings and creative decorating.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 175

Ingredients
  

Cookie Ingredients
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour Light and fluffy, providing the perfect base.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures the cookies rise beautifully.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds a rich and creamy texture.
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar Sweetens the dough, creating a delectable treat.
  • 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together for perfect consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses a warm sweetness to the cookies.
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) Offers a hint of nutty flavor.
Royal Icing Ingredients
  • 1 egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder) Essential for the royal icing.
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar For making the icing luscious and sweet.
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice Adds a refreshing tang to the icing.
  • Food coloring (optional for decoration) Transform your cookies into colorful masterpieces.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together.
  6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick and cut out cookies using a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter.
Baking
  1. Place the cookies on the prepared sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  2. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Royal Icing Preparation and Decoration
  1. Whisk the egg white or meringue powder with lemon juice until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar to achieve stiff peaks.
  2. Divide the icing into bowls and add food coloring if desired. Use for decorating the cooled cookies.
  3. Allow the icing to dry completely before serving or packaging.

Notes

Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft. Use high-quality unsalted butter for better flavor and try flavor variations. Invest in piping tips for intricate designs. Make a double batch to freeze half for later.