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:

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