Save Adorable sugar cookies in heart and star shapes, decorated with colorful icing and charming bow designs—perfect for celebrations, gifts, or afternoon tea.
I loved making these cookies with my kids; the decorating part brought out their creativity and joy.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- For the Royal Icing: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar sifted, 1 1/2 tablespoons meringue powder, 3–4 tablespoons warm water, Gel food coloring (pink, red, yellow, blue, etc.)
- For Decorating: Assorted sprinkles, Edible pearls, Piping bags and small round tips
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes).
- Step 3:
- Add egg and vanilla extract beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut into heart and star shapes using cookie cutters.
- Step 8:
- Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes or until edges are just turning golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 10:
- For royal icing In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 3 tablespoons water. Beat until smooth and glossy, adding more water as needed for piping consistency.
- Step 11:
- Divide icing into bowls; tint each with gel food coloring as desired.
- Step 12:
- Fill piping bags with colored icing. Outline and flood the cooled cookies, then pipe bow designs and sprinkle with decorations. Allow icing to set completely before serving or packaging.
Save Making these cookies has become a cherished tradition in our family especially during holidays and birthdays.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, Mixing bowls, Rolling pin, Heart & star cookie cutters, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Wire racks, Piping bags and small round tips
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (butter). May contain traces of nuts if using certain sprinkles or decorations always check labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories 150, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 2 g per cookie
Save These cookies brighten any occasion and are sure to impress with their charming design and delightful taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What shapes are used for these cookies?
Heart and star cookie cutters create charming shapes perfect for decorating.
- → How is the colorful decoration achieved?
Royal icing is divided and tinted with gel food coloring to pipe bows and add vibrant details.
- → What ingredients make the dough tender?
A blend of all-purpose flour, softened butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla creates a soft, flavorful dough.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Yes, royal icing can be prepared in advance and stored airtight; cookies dry completely overnight for best results.
- → What pairs well with these treats?
They are delicious with tea, lemonade, or a sparkling rosé, enhancing the festive experience.