Sugar Cookies Royal Icing Festive

Name: Sugar Cookies Royal Icing Festive
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups white sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon almond extract; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 2 egg whites; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; Food coloring (optional)

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

Delight in the festive spirit with these beautifully decorated sugar cookies topped with royal icing, perfect for any celebration.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-25T21:40:28.194Z

These sugar cookies are a cherished tradition during the holidays, bringing joy to family gatherings and parties. The royal icing adds a beautiful finish, making each cookie a work of art.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Endless decorating possibilities for any occasion
A delightful treat that brings joy to both kids and adults

      

The Perfect Sugar Cookie Base

Creating the perfect sugar cookie base is essential for achieving that delightful soft and chewy texture. The combination of unsalted butter and white sugar is key to achieving the right balance of sweetness and richness. By creaming the butter and sugar together until smooth, you incorporate air into the mixture, which helps the cookies rise and maintain a tender crumb. Be sure to use room-temperature butter for optimal mixing.

Another important aspect is the chilling of the dough. Chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances their flavor. Allowing the dough to rest for at least an hour in the refrigerator is a simple yet crucial step that prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

Mastering Royal Icing

Royal icing is the crowning glory of your festive sugar cookies, providing a beautiful finish that can be customized for any occasion. The key to the perfect royal icing lies in the egg whites and powdered sugar ratio. Whipping the egg whites until foamy before gradually adding the powdered sugar creates a glossy, smooth icing that holds its shape well when piped.

To achieve different decorating techniques, you can adjust the consistency of the royal icing. For outlining cookies, a thicker icing is ideal, while a thinner consistency is perfect for flooding the surface. Experimenting with food coloring allows you to create vibrant designs that will impress your friends and family.

Creative Decorating Ideas

The decorating possibilities with royal icing are virtually endless, making these sugar cookies a canvas for your creativity. From intricate patterns to simple designs, you can personalize your cookies to suit any celebration, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or wedding. Consider using sprinkles or edible glitter to add extra flair to your creations.

For a fun twist, involve kids in the decorating process. Set up a decorating station with various colors of icing, sprinkles, and edible decorations. This not only makes for a fun family activity but also allows everyone to express their creativity through their cookie designs. The joy of decorating together will create lasting memories.

Ingredients

Sugar Cookies

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3/4 teaspoon salt

Royal Icing

2 egg whites
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Food coloring (optional)

Mix together the ingredients well to ensure a smooth dough and icing.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and baking powder. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg, vanilla, and almond extract.

Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Chill the dough for at least an hour.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thick and cut into shapes. Place on ungreased cookie sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool.

Make the Royal Icing

In a mixing bowl, whisk egg whites until foamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice until you reach the desired consistency. If using, divide and tint with food coloring.

Decorate the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate with royal icing using piping bags. Allow the icing to dry completely before serving.

Enjoy your beautifully decorated sugar cookies at your next festive gathering!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help retain their soft and chewy texture. If you have decorated cookies, ensure that the royal icing is completely dry before stacking them in the container to prevent any smudging.

If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature.

Customization Tips

Feel free to customize your sugar cookies with different flavors and extracts. Instead of almond extract, consider using lemon or coconut for a unique twist. You can also add zest from citrus fruits to enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.

When it comes to royal icing, try incorporating different flavors by adding a few drops of extract or flavored syrups. This not only adds a delicious surprise but also elevates the overall cookie experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasonal colors and themes to match your event.

Serving Suggestions

These festive sugar cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions. Serve them at holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for an extra special treat that everyone will love.

For a more elaborate presentation, consider arranging the cookies on a decorative platter and adding some seasonal decorations like ribbons or flowers. This simple touch can elevate your cookie display, making it a standout centerpiece at your next celebration.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use meringue powder instead of egg whites?

Yes, you can substitute 2 tablespoons of meringue powder mixed with 4 tablespoons of water for egg whites.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies without icing for up to three months. Thaw before decorating.

→ What can I use if I don't have almond extract?

You can substitute with additional vanilla extract or leave it out entirely.