# 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 - Beat softened butter with granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes.
03 - Add egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, blending until uniform.
04 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until a smooth dough is achieved.
05 - Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness; cut into mitten shapes using cookie cutter.
08 - Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are just golden. Cool on trays for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
10 - Whisk powdered sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice on low speed until smooth and glossy. Divide and tint with gel colors as desired.
11 - Apply icing and decorations to cooled cookies. Allow icing to set fully before display.
