Snowflake Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Introduction
Snowflake sugar cookies are a holiday classic, combining a buttery, tender base with intricate icing designs. These cookies are as much a delight to make as they are to eat. Decorated with royal icing, they make stunning edible gifts or centerpieces for your holiday table.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
For the Royal Icing:
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 large egg whites or 3 tablespoons meringue powder + 6 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla or almond extract
• Gel food coloring (red and green for snowflake patterns)
For Decoration:
• Edible silver or red candy pearls
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Roll and Cut
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness.
3. Use a snowflake-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes, transferring them to the prepared baking sheets.
Step 3: Bake
1. Bake the cookies for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
2. Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Royal Icing
1. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and vanilla until frothy.
2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until the icing holds stiff peaks.
3. Divide the icing into separate bowls and tint with gel food coloring.
Step 5: Decorate
1. Use a piping bag with a small round tip to outline the cookies with white icing.
2. Flood the cookies with thinner white icing and let them set for 1–2 hours.
3. Add red and green lines or dots to mimic snowflake patterns, and place candy pearls at the centers. Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
History of Sugar Cookies
Sugar cookies trace their origins back to the 1700s in Pennsylvania, where German settlers developed a simple yet versatile recipe. Over time, they became a festive favorite, especially during Christmas, thanks to their adaptability to various shapes and decorations.
Benefits of Homemade Snowflake Cookies
• Creative Outlet: Decorating cookies is a fun activity for families and children.
• Personalized Gifts: Homemade cookies are heartfelt gifts for loved ones.
• Customizable: You can tailor the colors, shapes, and designs to any occasion.
Formation
These cookies take shape using snowflake cookie cutters. After baking, the cookies are decorated with royal icing for intricate designs that resemble real snowflakes.
Nutrition Information (per cookie)
• Calories: ~120
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugar: 12g
• Protein: 1g
Conclusion
Snowflake sugar cookies are not just a treat but a work of art. Their delicate designs and delicious flavors make them a cherished holiday tradition. Enjoy making and sharing these edible masterpieces with friends and family.
Cookie Lovers Unite
These cookies are loved by all, from kids to adults. Whether served at a party or left out for Santa, they are guaranteed to spread joy and holiday cheer.