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. Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate container. Slowly pour this dry mixture into the butter mixture, stirring just until everything comes together.
4. Split the dough into two equal parts, form each 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. Dust a clean work surface with flour and roll out each dough circle to a uniform 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Cut out festive shapes using floured cookie cutters, then arrange the pieces on ungreased baking sheets with 2 inches of space between each one.
8. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, watching for the edges to turn a light golden brown.
9. Take the pan out of the oven and let the cookies rest on it for a few minutes before moving them to wire racks to cool down completely.
10. In a clean bowl, beat 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. Split the icing into separate containers and mix in your chosen paste food coloring to create your desired hues.
13. Apply the colored icing to the fully cooled cookies using a piping bag or a small spatula for detailed designs.
14. Let the decorated cookies sit until the icing hardens before enjoying or storing them.