Valentine's Day Cut-Out Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
These Valentine's Day sugar cookies are more than just a dessert; they're an edible expression of affection. The cookies themselves are tender, buttery, and hold their shape beautifully, making them ideal for intricate designs. The royal icing, once dried, creates a crisp, smooth finish that allows for creative decoration, from simple hearts to more elaborate patterns. Perfect for gifting to loved ones, sharing at a party, or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, these cookies capture the spirit of February's celebrations.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- 2Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
- 3Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use heart-shaped or other Valentine's themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
- 4Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with remaining dough.
- 5For the royal icing: In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar and meringue powder. Gradually add warm water, beating on low speed with an electric mixer until combined. Increase speed to high and beat for 5-7 minutes, until stiff, glossy peaks form. If icing is too thick, add more water 1 teaspoon at a time; if too thin, add more powdered sugar.
- 6Divide the royal icing into separate bowls and tint with gel food coloring as desired. Transfer icing to piping bags fitted with small round tips or use a small spoon for flooding. Decorate cooled cookies as desired. Allow icing to dry completely (several hours or overnight) before stacking or storing.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Once decorated and fully dried, sugar cookies with royal icing can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. For best flavor, consume within a few days.
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough is crucial because it solidifies the butter, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helping them maintain their cut-out shapes. It also makes the dough easier to handle.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Yes, you can use a buttercream frosting if you prefer, but it will not harden like royal icing and may be messier for stacking. For precise decorations and a smooth finish, royal icing is recommended.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.
