Budget Graduation Party Cookies: Soft Baked

Instructions:

1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and unsweetened applesauce until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
5. Roll the dough to 1/4 inch thickness on a floured surface and use cookie cutters to create shapes.
6. Place cookies on a parchment-lined sheet with 2 inches of space between each.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until edges are pale golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Divide into bowls and add food coloring.
10. Pipe the glaze onto the cooled cookies to create mortarboard or diploma designs.