Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 1 cup White Sugar Essential for balancing flavors and contributing to the cookie’s texture.
- 14 oz Butter, softened Ensure it’s softened, not melted, for proper texture.
- 2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent.
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor.
- 1 tsp Almond Extract Provides a festive flavor lift.
- 1 orange Zest of Orange Adds brightness and citrusy note.
- 6 cups Plain Flour Essential for dough consistency.
Icing
- 6 tbsp Meringue Powder Used for icing structure.
- 8 tbsp Water Adjusts icing consistency.
- 2 tsp Lemon Juice Brightens flavor of icing.
- 7 cups Powdered Sugar, sifted Adds sweetness and texture.
- Gel Food Coloring Use for festive decorations.
Decorations
- Sprinkles/edible glitter/crushed candy canes Enhance the holiday spirit!
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Cream the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl until fluffy and light in color.
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Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, almond extract, and orange zest.
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Gradually add the plain flour into the mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
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Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
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Chill the cut cookies in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
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Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
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Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack.
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For the icing, whisk together meringue powder, lemon juice, and water in a bowl.
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Divide the icing into bowls and add gel food coloring to create festive shades.