Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (340g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226g)
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (300g)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226g) for frosting
  • 4 cups powdered sugar (480g)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (30ml)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting
  • Food coloring (various colors)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. In another bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  5. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Roll out dough on a floured surface to ¼ inch thick.
  8. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
  10. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
  11. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  12. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
  13. Add heavy cream and vanilla; beat until fluffy.
  14. Divide the frosting into bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.
  15. Use a piping bag or knife to frost cooled cookies with buttercream.
  16. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter, if desired.