Learn how to decorate ugly sweater cookies that are perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges. These cookies are not only delicious, but they are also a fun and creative activity for the entire family.
Ingredients: For the cookies:. - 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour. - 1 teaspoon baking powder. - 1 teaspoon salt. - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened. - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar. - 1 large egg. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract. For the royal icing:. - 4 cups powdered sugar. - 2 tablespoons meringue powder. - 5-6 tablespoons water. - Food coloring assorted colors. Additional decorations:. - Edible glitter. - Colored sprinkles. - Mini candy canes.
Instructions: For the cookies: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 350F 175C and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use sweater-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. For the royal icing: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and meringue powder. Gradually add water and whisk until smooth and glossy. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring to achieve desired colors. Transfer the icing to piping bags fitted with small round tips. Decorating the cookies: Outline the sweater cookie shapes with the colored royal icing. Fill in the outlined areas with more royal icing, using a toothpick to spread it evenly. While the icing is still wet, add decorative elements like edible glitter, colored sprinkles, and mini candy canes. Allow the icing to set and harden before serving or packaging the cookies. Enjoy your delicious and festive decorated ugly sweater cookies! Note: Have fun with different sweater designs and decorations for a variety of festive looks!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
melissa haupsteen
