Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups (330g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 3 large egg whites (or 6 tablespoons meringue powder mixed with 6 tablespoons water)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • Gel food coloring (various colors)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. On a floured surface, roll out chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on parchment-lined baking sheets.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cookies are lightly golden; let cool completely on a wire rack.
  10. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and egg whites (or prepared meringue).
  11. Beat until stiff peaks form, adding lemon juice if desired.
  12. Divide icing into separate bowls and tint with gel food coloring as needed.
  13. Using piping bags, outline and flood the cookies with colored icing. Add details as desired and let dry completely.