Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large (50g) egg, room temperature
- 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (45g) black cocoa powder (Dutch-processed)
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5g) baking powder
- 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp (30ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- Yellow sanding sugar
- Yellow food coloring gel
Instructions:
- In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-high until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture on low speed until a stiff dough forms.
- Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to ensure the shape remains defined during baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to a consistent 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness.
- Use a graduation cap cookie cutter to press firmly into the dough and transfer the cut-outs to the baking sheets.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until set.
- Prepare frosting by mixing powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and food coloring gel until smooth.
- Pipe frosting onto cooled cookies and decorate with yellow sanding sugar for the tassel.