Holiday Ornament Cookies: Festive Edible Art for the Holidays

Holiday Ornament Cookies: Festive Edible Art for the Holidays ✨

Add a creative and delicious touch to your holiday festivities with these Holiday Ornament Cookies! Designed to mimic the sparkling ornaments on your Christmas tree, these cookies are a perfect blend of buttery sweetness and stunning decoration. Whether you hang them as edible ornaments, gift them to loved ones, or serve them at holiday gatherings, these cookies will spread festive cheer and joy!

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour 🌾
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 🍰
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter (softened) 🧈
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar 🍬
• 1 large egg 🥚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍦
• ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional, for added flavor) 🌰

For the Royal Icing:

• 4 cups (500 g) powdered sugar (sifted) 🍚
• 3 tablespoons meringue powder 🍪
• 6-8 tablespoons water (adjust for desired consistency) 💧
• Gel food coloring (Red and Gold) 🎨
• Edible glitter or luster dust ✨
• Gold dragees (for decoration) ✨

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using), and mix until fully combined.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.
6. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

2. Roll and Shape the Cookies

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness.
2. Use an ornament-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
3. Transfer the cookies to prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart.
4. If desired, use a straw or piping tip to create a hole at the top of each cookie for threading ribbon later.

3. Bake the Cookies

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Royal Icing

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water until smooth and thick. Adjust the consistency with small amounts of water if needed.
2. Divide the icing into two bowls. Add red gel food coloring to one bowl and gold to the other, mixing until fully incorporated.

5. Decorate the Cookies

1. Once the cookies are completely cool, use piping bags or fine-tipped icing tools to decorate with red and gold icing. Create patterns like swirls, stripes, or intricate ornament designs.
2. Sprinkle edible glitter or apply luster dust for sparkle.
3. Place gold dragees strategically for added elegance.

6. Allow the Icing to Set

1. Let the decorated cookies sit for 1-2 hours until the icing is completely dry.
2. Thread ribbon or twine through the holes to hang the cookies on your Christmas tree, or package them as beautiful edible gifts.

Enjoy your stunning Holiday Ornament Cookies—a perfect mix of flavor and festive fun!

Tips for the Best Ornament Cookies

• Chill the dough: Chilling prevents the cookies from spreading during baking, keeping their shape intact.
• Plan your designs: Sketch a design on paper before decorating for consistent results.
• Custom colors: Experiment with other festive colors like green, silver, or white for unique ornaments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use premade cookie dough?
A: Yes! Premade sugar cookie dough works well as a quick alternative. Just ensure it’s firm enough to roll out and shape.

Q: How long do these cookies last?
A: Stored in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze undecorated cookies and add icing when needed.

Q: How do I fix royal icing that’s too runny?
A: Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the icing thickens to your desired consistency.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
2. Spreading cookies: Ensure the dough is thoroughly chilled before rolling and cutting.
3. Uneven icing application: Practice piping on parchment paper before decorating your cookies.

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