Save to Pinterest Adorable sugar cookies in heart and star shapes, decorated with colorful icing and charming bow designs—perfect for celebrations, gifts, or afternoon tea.
I enjoy baking these cookies with my family for special occasions and gifting them to friends.
Ingredients
- For the Cookies: 2 1/2 cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- For the Cookies: 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- For the Cookies: 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For the Cookies: 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- For the Cookies: 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- For the Cookies: 1 large egg
- For the Cookies: 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- For the Royal Icing: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- For the Royal Icing: 1 1/2 tablespoons meringue powder
- For the Royal Icing: 3–4 tablespoons warm water
- For the Royal Icing: Gel food coloring (pink, red, yellow, blue, etc)
- For Decorating: Assorted sprinkles
- For Decorating: Edible pearls
- For Decorating: Piping bags and small round tips
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Step 3:
- Add egg and vanilla extract beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing just until dough forms.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut into heart and star shapes using cookie cutters.
- Step 8:
- Transfer cookies to prepared baking sheets, spacing them 1 inch apart.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are just turning golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 10:
- For royal icing In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 3 tablespoons water. Beat until smooth and glossy, adding more water as needed for piping consistency.
- Step 11:
- Divide icing into bowls tint each with gel food coloring as desired.
- Step 12:
- Fill piping bags with colored icing. Outline and flood the cooled cookies, then pipe bow designs and sprinkle with decorations. Allow icing to set completely before serving or packaging.
Save to Pinterest These cookies always bring smiles during family gatherings especially when decorating together.
Notes
Let decorated cookies dry overnight for best results. Pair with tea lemonade or a sparkling rosé for a delightful treat.
Required Tools
Electric mixer Mixing bowls Rolling pin Heart & star cookie cutters Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire racks Piping bags and small round tips
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) eggs milk (butter). May contain traces of nuts if using certain sprinkles or decorations always check labels.
Save to Pinterest These pretty bows heart and star cookies are sure to impress your guests and delight your family.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best way to roll out the dough evenly?
Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface to ensure even baking.
- → How can I achieve vibrant icing colors?
Use gel food coloring for rich, bright hues without thinning the royal icing consistency.
- → How long should the icing dry before handling?
Allow the icing to set overnight or several hours until completely firm to avoid smudging the designs.
- → Can I prepare the royal icing in advance?
Yes, royal icing can be stored in an airtight container and stirred well before use.
- → What are good pairing drinks with these cookies?
They pair wonderfully with tea, lemonade, or sparkling rosé to complement their sweetness.