Save Adorable sugar cookies in heart and star shapes, decorated with colorful icing and charming bow designs—perfect for celebrations, gifts, or afternoon tea.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite during our holiday baking sessions, bringing joy to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- For the Royal Icing: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted, 1 1/2 tablespoons meringue powder, 3 4 tablespoons warm water, Gel food coloring (pink, red, yellow, blue, etc.)
- For Decorating: Assorted sprinkles, Edible pearls, 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 Our family loves gathering around the kitchen to decorate these cookies together, creating sweet memories along with the treats.
Notes
Let decorated cookies dry overnight for best results. Pair with tea, lemonade, or a sparkling rosé for a delightful treat.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, Mixing bowls, Rolling pin, Heart & star cookie cutters, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire racks, Piping bags and small round tips
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter). May contain traces of nuts if using certain sprinkles or decorations, always check labels.
Save These cookies are as delightful to make as they are to eat, sure to brighten any occasion.