# Components:
→ Cookies
01 - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing
08 - 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
09 - 2 large egg whites or 1/4 cup pasteurized liquid egg whites
10 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
11 - Gel food coloring, assorted colors
→ Decorations
12 - Sprinkles, sanding sugar, edible pearls (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
02 - Using an electric mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
03 - Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth dough forms.
05 - Divide dough in half; shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into mitten shapes using a cookie cutter.
08 - Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice on low speed until smooth and glossy. Divide and tint with desired food coloring.
11 - Pipe royal icing onto cooled cookies and decorate with sprinkles or edible pearls as desired. Allow icing to set completely before display.
