Ingredients:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large (50g) egg
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp (10g) baking powder
- 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
- 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
- 2.5 tbsp (37.5ml) milk
- 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
- Gel food coloring
Instructions:
- Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture looks pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Gradually fold in the flour, baking powder, and salt on low speed just until the white streaks of flour disappear.
- Roll the dough out to a 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness on a floured surface and cut into graduation shapes using cookie cutters.
- Transfer the cutouts to a parchment-lined tray and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and barely pale gold.
- Allow cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until the glaze is thick but pourable; divide into bowls and stir in gel colors.
- Pipe the base color first, let set for 15 minutes, and then add fine decorative details.