Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks / 227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
  • 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg white
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Assorted festive sprinkles, sanding sugar, or edible glitter

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
  5. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water until frothy.
  10. Brush the cookies with the egg wash and immediately sprinkle with your choice of sprinkles, sanding sugar, or edible glitter. These holiday cookies will be delicious!
  11. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  12. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.