# What You Need:
→ 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)
# Directions:
01 - In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
02 - Beat in the large egg and pure vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until blended.
05 - Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into heart and star shapes using cookie cutters.
08 - Place cutouts onto prepared baking sheets, spacing about 1 inch apart.
09 - Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until edges begin to turn golden brown. Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
10 - Whisk together powdered sugar, egg white (or meringue powder mixture), and lemon juice until smooth. Divide into portions and color as desired.
11 - Apply the royal icing to cooled cookies using a piping bag or spatula. Add edible glitter or sprinkles as desired. Allow icing to set fully before serving.
