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Sugar cookies in shape of stars on a gray backdrop
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Classic Sugar Cookies

These classic Sugar Cookies are rich, buttery, and chewy.  I’m pretty sure it’s a must that sugar cookies must be consumed during the holidays.
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings 15 cookies
Calories 185kcal
Author Ana Frias

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3/4 cups unsalted butter 1.5 sticks
  • 2 tablespoons cod vegetable shortening
  • 2/3 cups white sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Basic Royal Icing

  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar sifted
  • 2 egg whites from large eggs
  • 2 teaspoon fresh squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.
  • In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, shortening, and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add the egg and vanilla and beat until just combined. Add the flour mixture and mix until incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  • Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Dust a clean work surface with flour. Roll the chilled dough until you reach 1/4 inch in thickness.
  • Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut shapes in the dough and transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
  • Bake for 12 minutes, until they are set but not browned. Remove from the oven and place the baking sheet on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. Transfer the cookies to the rack to cool completely.

Making the Basic Royal Icing:

  • In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg whites, and lemon juice until the mixture is completely smooth. It should have the texture of a glaze (if it's too thin, add a bit more sugar. If it's too thick, add a few drops of lemon juice.)
  • Glaze cookies with a pastry bag fitted with a small medium tip or just by using a spoon. Let the icing harden before serving.
  • The cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook! 

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 37mg | Sodium: 53mg | Potassium: 8mg | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Calcium: 5mg