Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (226g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons meringue powder (approx. 25g)
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) warm water
  • Food coloring gels (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
  8. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.
  9. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Combine meringue powder, powdered sugar, and water. Beat until stiff peaks form. Add food coloring, if desired.
  11. Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing.