Valentine's Royal Icing Cookies
Dive into the spirit of Valentine's with our delightful Valentine's Royal Icing Cookies. A perfect blend of flavor and festivity, these cookies offer a soft, thick bite with a hint of crispness, elegantly adorned with vibrant royal icing. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cookie art for the first time, this recipe promises a fun, engaging experience, leaving you with stunning, message-bearing treats. Ideal for gift-giving or as a special treat for your loved ones, these cookies are a sweet testament to your affection.
Ingredients
- 2 and 1/4 cups 281g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup 12 Tbsp; 170g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup 150g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 or 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 4 cups 480g confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 3 Tablespoons meringue powder
- 9 –10 Tablespoons room-temperature water
- gel food coloring
Instructions
- Begin with Basics: Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Creaming Process: In a larger bowl, whip butter and sugar until creamy. Add egg and extracts, beating until smooth.
- Dough Formation: Gradually add dry mix to wet, blending to a soft consistency. Add extra flour if too sticky.
- Roll and Cool: Split dough in half, roll each to 1/4-inch thickness, and refrigerate for 2 hours minimum.
- Shape and Bake: Preheat to 350°F. Cut hearts from the dough, bake for 11-12 minutes, then cool.
- Icing Prep: Whip confectioners’ sugar, meringue powder, and water. Tint with food colorings as you like.
- Decorating Time: Use piping bags to outline and fill cookies with icing. Add messages with red icing after the base sets.
- Setting Stage: Allow cookies to set for a few hours before enjoying or storing them.