Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a soft dough.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
- Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up. This step is crucial for easier rolling and cutting.
Step 3: Roll Out and Cut Cookies
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into desired shapes and transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Frosting
- Make Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar with an electric mixer. Start with 2 cups of sugar and add more as needed for desired sweetness and stiffness. Add milk or cream gradually until you reach a spreadable consistency. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Color the Frosting: If desired, add a few drops of food coloring to achieve the color you want.
Step 6: Decorate
- Frost Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a spatula or butter knife to apply the frosting. Spread evenly over the cookies.
- Add Decorations: If desired, add sprinkles, edible glitter, or other decorative toppings while the frosting is still wet.
Conclusion
Frosted cookies are a fun, customizable baking project that’s perfect for many occasions. Whether you’re making them for a holiday, a party, or just as a treat, these cookies are sure to impress with their tender texture and sweet frosting. Enjoy the process of decorating and share your beautiful, tasty creations with friends and family!