Name: Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg white or 3 tablespoons meringue powder; 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice; Gel food colors (pink, purple, green, yellow)

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Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing

Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing are the epitome of delightful desserts. Each bite reveals a buttery richness paired with the delicate sweetness of royal icing, creating a cookie experience that transcends the ordinary. The gentle crunch and soft center of these cookies provide an inviting texture, while the vibrant and intricately decorated floral designs make them a feast for the eyes. Ideal for special occasions, tea parties, or simply as a charming treat for yourself, these cookies are worthy of your kitchen efforts. They are not just any cookies; they’re a canvas for your creativity while also being remarkably easy to make, especially with our step-by-step recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes these Floral Butter Cookies irresistible? For starters, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll find that this is a quick yet satisfying project for a cozy weekend. The whole family can get involved in the fun, whether it’s rolling out the dough, cutting the cookie shapes, or decorating with royal icing. With the added bonus of being able to customize the designs and colors, creating a batch of these cookies can become a cherished family tradition.

For Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing

To create these beautiful Floral Butter Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg white or 3 tablespoons meringue powder
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Gel food colors (pink, purple, green, yellow)

These ingredients come together to create a cookie that is as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for any celebratory occasion or just a sweet snack.

Step-by-Step Directions

To get started, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. This is the base of your dough that will provide the perfect texture.

In a separate large bowl, cream together your softened butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into your butter, creating that soft texture. Gradually add your dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until you form a soft dough.

Once your dough is ready, roll it into a ball, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm it up. This step not only makes it easier to roll out later but also helps the flavors to meld. After chilling, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your floral cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then transfer them to your prepared baking sheets. Bake them for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

While your cookies are cooling, prepare the royal icing. If using egg whites, beat them until stiff peaks form before gradually adding your powdered sugar and lemon juice, continuing to mix until the icing is smooth. For those using meringue powder, combine it with water according to package instructions, then add the powdered sugar and lemon juice. Divide the royal icing into small bowls; tint each bowl with gel food colors to create a palette of hues for your decorating.

Once the cookies have completely cooled, grab a piping bag or fine-tipped piping tool to add elaborate floral patterns and designs using your colorful royal icing. Allow the icing to set before serving or storing these lovely creations.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Floral Butter Cookies come out perfectly every time, here are a few chef’s secrets: First, if you want your cookies to be extra flavorful, consider browning the butter slightly before mixing, adding a richer depth. Second, when rolling out the dough, try using a rolling pin with guides to ensure an even thickness of 1/4-inch.

For an added twist, incorporate various flavor extracts such as lemon or mint to the dough. And remember to decorate your cookies with sprinkles or edible glitter for an extra flourish! Planning a theme? Match your colors for events like weddings or baby showers to impress your guests.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Floral Butter Cookies are as delightful in presentation as they are in taste. Arrange them on a beautiful platter adorned with fresh flowers or greenery to create a stunning centerpiece at any gathering. Serve them alongside a pot of herbal tea or a refreshing lemonade for a perfect afternoon treat.

For a creative twist, consider making a cookie gift box. Decorate a simple box with floral accents and fill it with an assortment of your beautifully iced cookies to share with friends or loved ones. The sweetness of the cookies pairs wonderfully with light snacks or as a little indulgent treat during the day.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional breakdown may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands, your Floral Butter Cookies will typically feature around 150 calories per cookie. Each cookie also offers a delightful range of fats from the butter and sugars, delivering a quick boost of energy. While they are undoubtedly an indulgent treat, these cookies can still be enjoyed as a part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Storing Tips & Variations for Floral Butter Cookies

If you find yourself with leftover cookies, don’t worry! These beauties can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you may freeze the undecorated cookies. Simply layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Portion out the royal icing and freeze it separately for future decorating.

For healthier swaps, consider using almond flour or whole wheat flour to make a more wholesome version of the cookies. You can also swap the butter for coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, try incorporating dried fruits or nuts into the dough for an unexpected flavor boost!

Conclusion for Floral Butter Cookies

You’re now equipped to create delightful Floral Butter Cookies with Royal Icing that are sure to impress anyone who lays eyes on them. The combination of beautiful visuals and irresistible flavor makes them a must-try recipe for your next baking adventure. Their whimsical nature invites creativity, making baking them a delightful experience and a delicious treat to enjoy afterward. Try them today, and let your kitchen be filled with joy and creativity!

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
While butter gives the best flavor and texture to these cookies, margarine can be used as a substitute. However, keep in mind that it may alter the final taste.
What’s the best way to store decorated cookies?
Store decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, with sheets of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
How do I achieve the perfect royal icing consistency?
Your royal icing should resemble the consistency of toothpaste for outlining and more like syrup for flooding. Adjust with water or powdered sugar as needed for desired thickness.
What if my royal icing hardens too fast while decorating?
Keep your piping bag covered with a damp cloth to prevent the icing from drying out while you work. If it hardens, try adding a few drops of water to loosen it up before using again.