Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing
These enchanting Floral Butter Cookies are a delightful blend of creamy butter and sugar, topped with vibrant royal icing for a charming treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour Ensure to spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Start with room temperature butter for easier creaming.
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg Provides structure and richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional) Adds a nutty undertone.
- ¼ teaspoon salt Enhances the sweetness.
Royal Icing Ingredients
- 1 large egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder) Essential for achieving royal icing.
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar Vital for crafting the icing.
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice Helps maintain icing consistency.
- Food coloring (for decoration) Use your imagination for vibrant colors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, followed by vanilla extract and almond extract until well combined.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
Baking
- Place cookie shapes on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
Icing Preparation
- In a clean bowl, whisk egg white (or rehydrated meringue powder) with lemon juice until soft peaks form.
- Gradually mix in powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
- Divide icing into bowls and add food coloring as desired.
Decoration
- Use piping bags or a knife to decorate cooled cookies with royal icing.
- Allow the icing to set before serving or packaging.
Notes
Experiment with food coloring to create unique designs. Allow decorated cookies to rest long enough for icing to harden correctly.