Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated white sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp (5ml) pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour, leveled
  • 2 tbsp (16g) cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) fine sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners' sugar, sifted
  • 3 tbsp (45ml) champagne or dry sparkling wine
  • 1/2 tsp gold luster dust or gold sanding sugar

Instructions:

  1. Creaming and Emulsification: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for three minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, beating until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
  2. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: Whisk the flour, cornstarch, and salt together. Gradually add to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing only until no streaks of flour remain to ensure a tender texture.
  3. Chilling and Shaping: Wrap the dough in plastic and chill for at least 1 hour. On a floured surface, roll the dough to 1/4 inch (6mm) thickness and cut into festive star shapes.
  4. Precise Baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange cookies on parchment-lined sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are barely golden and centers are set.
  5. Finishing with the Sparkling Glaze: Whisk the confectioners' sugar and champagne until a thick, pourable glaze forms. Once cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze and garnish with gold luster dust.