Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (225g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature (50g)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract (10ml)
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (340g)
  • 2 tsp cornstarch (6g)
  • 1 tsp baking powder (5g)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (3g)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
  • 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream (30ml)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (2.5ml)

Instructions:

  1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until the mixture looks pale and fluffy.
  2. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and velvety.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing only until no streaks of flour remain.
  5. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into smooth balls.
  6. Roll each ball in a small bowl of granulated sugar for a crystalline finish.
  7. Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until edges are set but tops still look slightly pale.
  8. Prepare icing by mixing powdered sugar, milk or heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth; apply to cooled cookies.