Halloween Sugar Cookies

Directions

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together 1 ½ cups softened unsalted butter and 2 cups white granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add 4 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add 5 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1 teaspoon salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Cover the dough and refrigerate for 1 hour to firm up.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of ¼ to ⅓ inch. Press cookie cutters into the dough, spacing them about ½ inch apart on the prepared sheets. Remove the excess dough around the shapes.
7. Bake the cookies for 6 to 7 minutes, then let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. In a separate bowl, beat ½ cup softened butter until smooth. Gradually add 3 cups powdered sugar, then mix in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream until the frosting is creamy. Allow the cookies to cool completely for about 10 minutes before frosting them.