Christmas Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing

These Christmas sugar cookies are a classic holiday treat, soft and buttery with a crisp edge. The royal icing adds a beautiful glossy finish that’s perfect for decorating. These cookies are ideal for gifting, sharing at holiday parties, or enjoying with family.

Ingredients

For the 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 granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Royal Icing:

• 3 large egg whites (or use pasteurized egg whites)
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Food coloring (optional)
• Sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Sugar Cookie Dough:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
   • In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
   • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
2. Chill and Roll Out the Dough:
   • Divide the dough into two portions and wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days) to firm up.
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
   • Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes (stars, trees, snowflakes, etc.).
   • Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
3. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary based on the size and thickness of the cookies.
   • Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Royal Icing:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until stiff peaks form.
   • Add the lemon juice and beat until smooth and glossy. If the icing is too thick, add a little water (a teaspoon at a time) to reach your desired consistency for piping and flooding.
   • Divide the icing into separate bowls if you want to use different colors, and add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl.
5. Decorate the Cookies:
   • Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a small spoon to outline the edges of each cookie with royal icing.
   • Once the outline has set (usually 15-20 minutes), flood the centers with a thinner consistency of royal icing. You can gently spread the icing with a toothpick to cover the surface.
   • Add additional decorations, such as sprinkles, edible glitter, or more piping for details.
   • Allow the icing to dry completely before storing or packaging.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the decorated cookies sit out at room temperature for at least an hour to fully set. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips and Variations

• Royal Icing Consistency: For outlining, use a thicker icing consistency, and for flooding, use a thinner consistency. To adjust the thickness, add water to thin or more powdered sugar to thicken.
• Vegan Version: Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) as an egg substitute for the royal icing.
• Flavor Variations: Add a few drops of almond or lemon extract to the sugar cookie dough for extra flavor.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the sugar cookie dough and royal icing ahead of time. The dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, and the icing can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

These Christmas sugar cookies with royal icing are a fun and festive way to spread holiday cheer! Enjoy baking and decorating with your loved ones!