Save Adorable sugar cookies in heart and star shapes, decorated with colorful icing and charming bow designs—perfect for celebrations, gifts, or afternoon tea.
These cookies always bring a smile during family gatherings and are fun to decorate together.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- For the Cookies: 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Cookies: 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cookies: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened
- For the Cookies: 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- For the Cookies: 1 large egg
- For the Cookies: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- For the Royal Icing: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar sifted
- For the Royal Icing: 1 1/2 tablespoons meringue powder
- For the Royal Icing: 3 4 tablespoons warm water
- For the Royal Icing: Gel food coloring (pink red yellow blue etc)
- For Decorating: Assorted sprinkles
- For Decorating: Edible pearls
- For Decorating: Piping bags and small round tips
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour baking powder and salt Set aside
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes)
- Step 3:
- Add egg and vanilla extract beat until combined
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients mixing just until dough forms
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half flatten into discs wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) Line baking sheets with parchment paper
- Step 7:
- On a floured surface roll out dough to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness Cut into heart and star shapes using cookie cutters
- Step 8:
- Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheets spacing them 1 inch apart
- Step 9:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes or until edges are just turning golden Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to wire racks to cool completely
- Step 10:
- For royal icing In a bowl combine powdered sugar meringue powder and 3 tablespoons water Beat until smooth and glossy adding more water as needed for piping consistency
- Step 11:
- Divide icing into bowls tint each with gel food coloring as desired
- Step 12:
- Fill piping bags with colored icing Outline and flood the cooled cookies then pipe bow designs and sprinkle with decorations Allow icing to set completely before serving or packaging
Save These cookies have become a beloved treat at family gatherings especially when decorated together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with tea lemonade or a sparkling rosé for a delightful treat.
Storing Tips
Let decorated cookies dry overnight for best results Store in an airtight container.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) eggs milk (butter) May contain traces of nuts if using certain sprinkles or decorations always check labels.
Save Enjoy crafting these charming cookies that bring joy and sweetness to any occasion.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → How do I achieve smooth royal icing for decorating?
Combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water, then beat until smooth and glossy. Adjust water gradually for a perfect piping consistency.
- → What thickness should I roll the dough?
Roll the dough to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness to ensure even baking and sturdy shapes for decorating.
- → Can these cookies be made ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be chilled before baking, and royal icing can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for future use.
- → How long should decorated cookies dry?
Allow the decorated cookies to dry overnight to ensure the icing is fully set and firm before handling or packaging.
- → What alternative flour can be used for a chocolate variation?
Replace 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour with cocoa powder to create a chocolate-infused dough variation.