Ingredients
– 1 cup salted butter (softened; unsalted butter can be used as a substitute)
– 1 cup granulated sugar (white or organic cane sugar)
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (pure vanilla preferred; can substitute 1 teaspoon with almond or lemon extract)
– 2 large eggs (fresh and at room temperature)
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (can use pastry, bread, or gluten-free flour; sift if lumpy)
– ¾ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup whole milk (heavy cream or half and half can substitute)
– 2 ½ tablespoons light corn syrup for shiny frosting that hardens
– 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
– 3-4 tablespoons milk (room temperature)
– 2 ½ tablespoons light corn syrup
– ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– Gel food coloring (optional for vibrant colors)
Instructions
1-Cream softened butter and sugar together until smooth.
2-Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
3-Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until dough forms.
4-Divide dough into two equal parts, shape into flat discs, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
5-Chill dough for at least 2 hours or overnight in an airtight container.
6-Once chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking. Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to 1/4 to 1/2 inch thickness and cut shapes with cookie cutters.
7-Place the shapes about 1 inch apart on the lined baking sheets. You can re-roll scraps up to two more times; any leftover dough after the third roll can be formed into thicker cookies for decorating.
8-Bake for 9-10 minutes until puffed and edges set but not browned, then cool for 5 minutes on the sheet before moving to a wire rack. For frosting, mix powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla; whisk to desired consistency, add gel food coloring if desired, and use piping bags to decorate. Let cookies stand at room temperature for at least 3 hours to harden.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🎯 Measure flour accurately by scooping and leveling or use 371 grams by weight.
❄️ Keep dough cold and avoid overworking to minimize spreading.
📏 Chill dough for at least 2 hours or overnight for best rolling and cutting.
🍴 Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
🌡️ Check your oven temperature with a thermometer for precise baking.
🥡 Store decorated cookies in airtight containers layered with parchment paper; best fresh at room temperature for 2-3 weeks.
❄️ Dough and baked undecorated cookies freeze well for up to two months if wrapped properly.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 9-10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains dairy and eggs
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie