My Jolly Holiday Sugar Cookies A Royal Treat

Instructions:

1. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill the dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven & Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
7. Roll Out and Cut Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
8. Bake Cookies: Place cookies on prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Cool Cookies: Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Prepare Royal Icing: In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar and meringue powder. Gradually add warm water, mixing on low speed until a smooth, glossy icing forms.
11. Divide and Color Icing: Divide the icing into separate bowls and add gel food coloring to achieve desired colors.
12. Decorate Cookies: Transfer icing to piping bags or squeeze bottles. Decorate sugar cookies as desired. Let icing set completely before stacking or storing.