Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing
Delight in whimsical Floral Butter Cookies adorned with royal icing, combining buttery softness with artistic flair, perfect for celebrating any occasion.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure, offering tender crunch.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar Adds sweetness.
- 1 cup softened unsalted butter Creates a luxuriously creamy dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Provides fragrant aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract Optional, enhances flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt Counters sweetness.
For the royal icing
- 1 number egg white Or use 3 tablespoons of meringue powder.
- 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar Adds sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice Brightens flavor.
- as needed drops water To adjust icing consistency.
- as needed varies gel food colors Use various colors for decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract, optional almond extract, and salt; mix until combined.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour, one-quarter cup at a time, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick and cut into flower shapes.
- Transfer cutouts to the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool cookies completely on a wire rack.
Royal Icing
- In a clean bowl, whisk egg white or meringue powder with lemon juice until frothy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth with stiff peaks.
- Divide icing into bowls and add gel food colors. Decorate cookies with outlined shapes and filled colors.
- Allow decorated cookies to dry completely for at least 2-3 hours before serving or storing.
Notes
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, and can be made gluten-free. Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Adjust the royal icing consistency with water as needed.