Best-Ever Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing

The ultimate no-chill, no-spread recipe that delivers perfectly crisp edges and soft centers every time. Decorator-approved for sharp details and long-lasting freshness.

Cookie Ingredients

• 1 lb (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (65°F)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tsp almond extract (secret flavor booster!)
• 6 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (720g)
• 1 tsp baking powder (for lift without spread)
• ½ tsp salt

Royal Icing Ingredients

• 2 lbs powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tbsp meringue powder
• ½ tsp cream of tartar (extra stability)
• 1 tbsp clear vanilla extract
• ½ tbsp almond extract
• 10-12 tbsp warm water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Cookie Dough

1. Cream butter and sugar on medium speed (2-3 min) until just combined (do not overmix).
2. Add eggs one at a time, then extracts. Mix until smooth (1 min).
3. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients on low speed until dough pulls away from the bowl.

2. Roll & Cut

4. Roll dough ¼” thick between parchment sheets (no extra flour needed).
5. Cut shapes and transfer to parchment-lined baking sheets. Re-roll scraps once.

3. Bake to Perfection

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for:
   • 10-11 min (small cookies)
   • 11-12 min (medium)
   • 12-13 min (large)
7. Cookies are done when edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked. Cool completely before decorating.

4. Prepare Royal Icing

8. Sift powdered sugar, meringue powder, and cream of tartar together.
9. Add extracts and 10 tbsp warm water. Mix on low for 1 min, then medium for 2 min.
10. Adjust consistency with 1-2 tbsp more water as needed:

• Outline consistency: Thicker (10-11 tbsp water)
• Flood consistency: Thinner (12 tbsp water)

Pro Tips for Success

Butter temperature is key: Should leave a slight indentation when pressed (not greasy).
Measure flour accurately: Too much = dry cookies; too little = spread.
For sharp edges: Chill cutouts for 10 min before baking.
Decorate like a pro: Use piping bags with #2 tips for outlines, then “flood” with thinner icing.

Storage & Freezing

• Undecorated cookies: Store in an airtight container for 2 weeks.
• Decorated cookies: Freeze in single layers for 1 month (thaw at room temp).
• Dough: Freeze wrapped in parchment for 3 months.

Why This Recipe Works

• Baking powder gives lift without compromising shape.
• Almond extract enhances flavor without tasting artificial.
• Cream of tartar in icing prevents cracking and adds shine.

More Easy TikTok Recipes to Try:

• 4-Ingredient Heath Toffee Cookies – A sweet and crunchy treat that’s ready in no time!
• Fruity Pebbles Cookies – Fun, colorful, and perfect for dessert lovers.
• TikTok Baked Feta Pasta
• TikTok Potato Bake

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