Christmas Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

Shortbread Cookies:

• 2 C Butter, Room temperature

• 1 C Brown Sugar

• 4 1/2 C AP Flour
• 1 t Vanilla

Royal Icing:

• 3 oz Egg Whites

• 4 C  Powdered Sugar

• 1 t Almond Extract

Method:

Shortbread Cookies:

In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and mix until combined. Add the flour, mixing on slow speed until dough is formed and completely combined.

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to approximately a ¼ in. thickness. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. Place in a preheated oven at 350 and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool before decorating.

Royal Icing:

In large bowl of stand mixer combine the egg whites and vanilla and beat until frothy. Add confectioners’ sugar gradually and mix on low speed until sugar is incorporated and mixture is shiny. Turn speed up to high and beat until mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. This should take approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Add food coloring, if desired. For immediate use, transfer icing to pastry bag and pipe as desired. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Happy cooking!