Royal icing Christmas cookies that wow with 7 tips

Name: Royal icing Christmas cookies that wow with 7 tips
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 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; 3 cups powdered sugar; 2 large egg whites; 1 teaspoon lemon juice

November 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Welcome to the wonderful world of holiday baking! There’s just something magical about making royal icing Christmas cookies that fills the kitchen with joy and festive spirit. The aroma of warm, sweet dough baking in the oven is enough to bring smiles to everyone around. These cookies not only taste delicious but also offer a canvas for creativity with vibrant royal icing decorations. Whether you’re crafting them for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or simply enjoying them with family, these festive delights are sure to spread cheer. Trust me, once you start decorating, you won’t want to stop!

Ingredients for Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

To whip up these delightful royal icing Christmas cookies, you’ll need some simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
3 cups powdered sugar
2 large egg whites
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Make sure your butter is nice and soft for easy mixing. Trust me, it makes a difference! And when it comes to the powdered sugar, don’t skip sifting it first if you can—it helps achieve that smooth, glossy icing we all love. Let’s get baking!

How to Prepare Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Let’s get started on that delicious cookie dough, shall we? First, grab a large bowl and mix together the 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This dry mix is the foundation of your cookies! In another bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy—oh, the smell is heavenly! Now, add in the large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Mix until everything is well combined. Finally, gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until it all comes together into a soft dough. It’s so satisfying!

Shaping and Baking the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes—think stars, trees, or candy canes! Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as you want them to be set but not browning. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before moving on; this step is crucial for the icing to stick well!

Making the Royal Icing

Time to whip up that beautiful royal icing! In a clean bowl, beat together 2 large egg whites and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Slowly add in 3 cups of powdered sugar, mixing until it reaches a glossy, thick consistency. You want it to hold its shape without being too runny—like a thick pancake batter. If it’s too thick, just add a tiny splash of water, and if it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar. This icing is your key to fabulous decorations!

Decorating the Cookies

Finally, let’s bring those cookies to life! Using a piping bag or a simple zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, decorate your cooled cookies with the royal icing. You can get creative here—think swirls, outlines, and even colorful accents using food coloring. Let the icing dry completely for about 4-6 hours before stacking them or packaging them up. This will ensure your hard work doesn’t get smudged. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to sneak a cookie or two while decorating!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These royal icing Christmas cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the holiday season! Here’s why you’ll adore making and sharing them:

Delicious Flavor: The buttery, sweet cookies paired with the smooth, sweet royal icing create a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
Creative Outlet: Decorating these cookies is a chance to unleash your inner artist! With so many colors and designs, every cookie can be a unique masterpiece.
Perfect for Gifting: Pack them up in a festive box, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will love.
Fun for All Ages: This is a fantastic activity for kids and adults alike! Gather everyone in the kitchen and enjoy some quality time together.
Holiday Tradition: Baking and decorating these cookies can become a cherished family tradition, one that everyone looks forward to each year.
Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and steps, you’ll feel like a baking pro even if you’re a beginner!
Freezer-Friendly: You can make the dough in advance or freeze the decorated cookies, making it easier to prepare for holiday gatherings.

Trust me, once you experience the joy of baking these festive delights, you’ll want to make them a staple of your holiday celebrations!

Tips for Success with Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

To make sure your royal icing Christmas cookies turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips that I’ve learned through years of joyful baking. Let’s dive in:

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so make sure you’re measuring your ingredients precisely. Use a kitchen scale for the flour if possible; it can really help with consistency!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This ensures they blend together smoothly, which is key for a soft and fluffy cookie.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we want them to be tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too soft or sticky, don’t hesitate to chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes rolling and cutting a breeze!
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should look set and not too golden around the edges. If you’re unsure, take one out and let it cool a bit to check for doneness.
Royal Icing Consistency: When making the royal icing, don’t rush it! Achieving the right consistency is crucial—practice a bit if you’re new to it. It should hold a shape but still flow smoothly when piped.
Patience is Key: Allow the icing to dry completely before stacking or packaging your cookies. I know it’s hard to wait, but this prevents smudges and keeps your designs intact.
Have Fun with Colors: Don’t shy away from using food coloring in your icing! It’s such an easy way to add a festive flair. Just remember, start with a tiny bit, and you can always add more for a deeper hue.
Practice Makes Perfect: If your first batch doesn’t come out as beautifully as you hoped, don’t get discouraged! Every baker has off days. Keep trying and experimenting to find what works best for you.
Share the Joy: Baking is more fun when you share it! Get family or friends involved in the decorating process. You’ll create memories (and some pretty cookies) that last a lifetime!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a batch of stunning royal icing Christmas cookies that will impress everyone. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

When it comes to enjoying royal icing Christmas cookies, it’s nice to have a little insight into their nutritional content. Here’s an approximate breakdown for each cookie:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 50mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use and how generously you decorate with icing. So while you’re indulging in these festive treats, it’s good to be aware of the numbers, but don’t forget to savor every bite! Happy baking and enjoy the deliciousness!

FAQ About Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

I love sharing my royal icing Christmas cookies, and I know you might have a few questions before diving in. Here are some common queries I get, along with my best tips to help you out:

How should I store my cookies?

Once your cookies are decorated and the icing is completely dry, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to three months.

Can I use different flavors for the icing?

Absolutely! While lemon juice adds a lovely zing, you can experiment with other flavors too. Almond extract, vanilla extract, or even a splash of peppermint extract can give your royal icing a delightful twist. Just be sure to adjust the amount to keep the consistency right!

What if my royal icing is too runny?

If your icing is on the runny side, don’t panic! Just add a little more powdered sugar until you reach that perfect consistency. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still flow smoothly when piped. Remember, practice makes perfect!

Can I tint the royal icing?

Yes, you can! Gel food coloring works best for adding vibrant colors to your icing without affecting its consistency too much. Start with a small amount and mix it in until you achieve your desired hue. Just remember to separate your icing into bowls if you want multiple colors!

Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for about three months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before rolling it out.

What if I don’t have egg whites for the icing?

No worries! You can use meringue powder as a substitute. Mix about 2 teaspoons of meringue powder with 2 tablespoons of water to replace each egg white. It works like a charm and gives you that beautiful royal icing texture!

How can I get my icing to dry faster?

To speed up the drying process, place your cookies in a cool, dry area with good airflow. Avoid using a fan directly on them, as it can cause the icing to dry unevenly. Patience is key, but a little airflow can help!

I hope these answers help you tackle any challenges that come your way while making your royal icing Christmas cookies. Enjoy the baking adventure—it’s all part of the fun!

Serving Suggestions for Royal Icing Christmas Cookies

These royal icing Christmas cookies are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with the right treats can take your holiday festivities to the next level! Here are some delightful ideas for serving:

Hot Cocoa: Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of rich hot chocolate. The sweetness of the cookies complements the cocoa perfectly—it’s the ultimate cozy combo!
Festive Milk: A glass of cold milk is always a classic choice. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to your milk to give it a holiday twist!
Tea Time: Pair your cookies with a cup of fragrant holiday tea, like chai or peppermint. The spices in the tea will enhance the flavors of your cookies beautifully.
Cheese Platter: For something a bit different, try serving your cookies with a cheese platter. The combination of sweet and savory will surprise your guests in the best way!
Fruit and Nut Medley: Create a festive spread by adding a mix of dried fruits and nuts. The chewy texture of the fruits and the crunch of the nuts add a lovely contrast to your cookies.
Holiday Parties: These cookies are perfect for any gathering. Arrange them on a festive platter, and watch them disappear as your guests enjoy the holiday spirit!

Whichever way you choose to serve them, these royal icing Christmas cookies are sure to bring smiles and joy to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy every bite!

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Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.