Halloween Sugar Cookies Recipe

Directions

1. In a large bowl, use a mixer to blend the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and uniform.
2. Add the room-temperature egg and vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing them in thoroughly.
3. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly pour this dry mixture into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
4. Split the dough in half, form each half into a flat circle, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for one hour or until firm enough to handle.
5. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up.
6. Lightly dust a clean surface with flour and roll out each dough circle to a thickness of 1/4 inch.
7. Cut out your desired Halloween shapes using floured cookie cutters, spacing the pieces about 2 inches apart on baking sheets that have not been greased.
8. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, watching for the edges to turn a light golden brown.
9. Take the cookies out of the oven and let them rest on the baking sheets for a few minutes before moving them to wire racks to cool down completely.
10. In a clean bowl, mix the confectioners' sugar and shortening together until smooth.
11. Slowly stir in the water, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing reaches a smooth, spreadable texture.
12. Portion the icing into separate bowls and mix in your chosen paste food coloring, such as yellow, orange, green, or black, to create your desired hues.
13. Once the cookies have cooled completely, use piping bags or a knife to apply the colored icing and create your designs.
14. Let the icing harden completely before enjoying or storing the decorated cookies.