Why Make This Recipe
Sugar cookies are a classic treat loved by many. Their simple, sweet flavor and soft texture make them perfect for any occasion. When topped with vibrant royal icing, they become not just delightful to eat but also a joy to look at.
Making sugar cookies with royal icing allows for creativity in decoration. You can customize them for holidays, birthdays, or just because. Everyone will appreciate your sweet efforts, making these cookies a fantastic addition to any gathering.
Equipment Needed for Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
To craft these delicious sugar cookies with royal icing, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures the baking process is smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you will need:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters in various shapes
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack
- Piping bags
- Food coloring (for icing)
- Clean brushes (for decorating)
What You Need to Make Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Sugar Cookies
- 1 cup salted butter
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
Royal Icing
- 3 cups icing sugar
- ¾ teaspoon cream of tartar
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tbsp water
Decoration
- 2 drops per color of food coloring
- 3-4 drops water per color of food coloring
How to Cook Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing Step by Step
To begin, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step will add a nice texture to your sugar cookies. Make sure to incorporate each ingredient well before moving on.
Next, mix in the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Stir the ingredients until they are just combined to avoid overworking the dough. It should form a cohesive ball. Once ready, cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and helps the cookies maintain their shape.
After the dough has chilled, lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the cookie dough to a thickness of approximately ¼ inch or 5 mm. Using cookie cutters, cut out various shapes. Transfer these shaped cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. When the oven is ready, bake the cookies for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges begin to brown slightly. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. It’s essential to let them cool completely before decorating.
Now, let’s make the royal icing. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the two egg whites until they form soft peaks. Make sure your bowl is free of any grease; this ensures the icing stabilizes correctly. Gradually add the icing sugar, cream of tartar, and the tablespoon of water. Mix until the icing reaches a smooth and glossy consistency.
Transfer the royal icing into a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Carefully pipe the icing onto the cooled cookies, adding any designs you like. For added creativity, let your icing set overnight to harden. If you plan to use food coloring, be sure to mix in a few drops with the water for the desired colors.
If you want to add details using watercolors, take drops of food coloring and mix them with a few drops of water. Use a clean brush to gently paint your designs on the hardened icing. This technique can give your cookies a beautiful artistic touch.
How to Serve Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Serving sugar cookies with royal icing can be a delightful experience. You can arrange them on a decorative platter for a festive look. For special occasions, consider stacking them or placing them in gift boxes as lovely treats for guests.
When serving, you can also label cookies if they are for a specific event, like a birthday or holiday. It adds a personal touch that people appreciate. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of milk, tea, or coffee. Sharing these sweet treats brings smiles all around.
What to Serve with Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Sugar cookies with royal icing pair wonderfully with various beverages. A glass of milk is a classic choice that complements the sweetness. For a more adult gathering, enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Adding fresh fruit, such as berries, can also balance the sweetness of the cookies. You could include a cheese platter for variety, or even some chocolate treats to satisfy every palate. These cookies shine as a centerpiece, inviting everyone to enjoy moments of joy together.
How to Store Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
To keep your sugar cookies fresh, it’s essential to store them properly. Once your cookies have cooled and the royal icing has set, place them in an airtight container. You can layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. These cookies can often last for up to a week, making them easy to prepare in advance for events. If you have leftovers, consider freezing un-frosted cookies. Just wrap them well and freeze for up to three months for later enjoyment.
Tips to Make Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
For the best results, use room temperature butter and eggs. This ensures a smooth batter that blends well. Don’t skip chilling the dough, as this step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
When mixing the royal icing, take your time to achieve the desired consistency. If you want thicker icing for outlines, add less water. For flooding the cookies, adjust with more water for a thinner consistency. Always test your icing on a cookie before proceeding with decoration.
Lastly, let your cookies cool completely before applying icing. This prevents your designs from melting or running, leading to beautifully decorated cookies.
Variation
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are many ways to modify it. You can add lemon or almond extract in place of vanilla for a unique flavor twist. For a festive touch, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough.
Another fun variation is to use colored sprinkles over the royal icing before it dries. This adds texture and an extra pop of color to your decorations. You can also explore different shapes and themes depending on the occasion, making your cookies even more appealing.
Best Time to Make Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing
Sugar cookies are perfect for any season, but they shine during holidays and celebrations. Prepare them for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or birthdays. People love receiving beautifully decorated cookies for special events.
Consider making sugar cookies during family gatherings or playdates. It’s a great way to involve kids in baking and decorating activities, creating lasting memories together. You can also bake them to send as thoughtful gifts to friends and loved ones.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making sugar cookies with royal icing, a few pitfalls can occur. One common mistake is not chilling the dough long enough, causing the cookies to spread while baking. Always ensure you allow enough time for the dough to set in the refrigerator.
Another mistake is not allowing the royal icing to dry fully before handling the cookies. This can lead to smudged designs and frustration when serving them. Ensure the icing hardens overnight for the best results.
Lastly, be mindful of your measurements. Baking is a science, and inaccurate measurement of ingredients might affect your cookie texture or icing stability. Always measure carefully for a successful batch.
Nutritional Notes (optional)
These sugar cookies with royal icing are a delightful treat but should be enjoyed in moderation. Typical cookies contain sugar, butter, and flour, contributing to their sweetness and richness. Adding royal icing introduces more sugar and calories.
For those watching their dietary intake, consider making smaller cookies or using alternative ingredients. You can substitute part of the sugar with a sweetener or make gluten-free variations using alternative flours. Enjoying sweets is all about balance, so savoring them occasionally is key.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, it may alter the texture and flavor. For best results, stick with real butter.
How long do the cookies last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week.
Can I freeze the decorated cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies once the icing has completely dried. Use a layer of parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Sugar cookies with royal icing are a timeless treat bursting with creativity and flavor. Their simplicity makes them approachable for bakers of all levels. With practice, you can master the art of decorating and make them unique for any occasion.
Baking these cookies offers a wonderful opportunity to gather with family or friends. Whether enjoyed alone or shared, they create sweet memories that last. Embrace the joy of baking these delightful cookies, and watch everyone smile as they savor each bite.
