# Needed Ingredients:
→ Cookie Dough
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
05 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Royal Icing
08 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
09 - 1 large egg white or 2 tablespoons meringue powder plus 3 tablespoons water
10 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
11 - Food coloring (pink, yellow, purple, blue, etc.)
12 - Edible glitter or sprinkles (optional)
# Preparation Steps:
01 - In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
02 - Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
05 - Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
08 - Using heart and star-shaped cookie cutters, cut out dough shapes. Arrange cookies on prepared baking sheets spaced 1 inch apart.
09 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges begin to turn golden. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg white or meringue powder mixture, and lemon juice until smooth. Divide and tint with desired food coloring.
11 - Apply royal icing, edible glitter, and sprinkles to cooled cookies. Allow icing to dry completely before serving.
