Snowflake Sugar Cookies
Delightful cookies crafted with love, perfect for holiday celebrations, with a buttery richness and tender crumb.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour light and airy for a delicate bite
- 1 teaspoon baking powder to ensure a delightful rise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt enhancing the sweetness perfectly
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to creamy perfection
- 1 1/2 cups sugar sweet and sparkly like snowflakes
- 1 large egg for binding and richness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract aromatic and comforting
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional) adding a warm, nutty note
For the Icing
- 1 egg white (or 2 tablespoons meringue powder) for a glossy finish
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar fluffy and sweet for icing
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice brightening up the flavors
- Food coloring (optional) for decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamy mixture and blend until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Use a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
Baking
- Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
Icing Preparation
- Whisk egg white or meringue powder with lemon juice until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
- Divide icing into bowls and add food coloring if desired.
- Use icing to create snowflake patterns on cooled cookies.
- Allow icing to dry completely before serving or packaging.
Notes
Avoid overmixing the dough and let cookies cool completely before icing for best results. For healthier alternatives, consider whole wheat flour or natural sugar substitutes. Decorate creatively and have fun!