Description
Star-Spangled Cookies are buttery sugar cookies cut into star shapes and decorated with red, white, and blue icing or sprinkles. These festive treats are perfect for celebrating the 4th of July with a sweet and patriotic flair.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Red, white, and blue royal icing or gel icing
- Star-shaped cookie cutters
- Optional: patriotic sprinkles or edible glitter
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Divide dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into star shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Decorate with red, white, and blue icing and sprinkles. Allow icing to set before serving or storing.
Notes
- For clean shapes, chill cut-out cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before baking.
- Royal icing gives a smooth finish but can be replaced with buttercream for a softer texture.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Perfect activity for kids to decorate with patriotic designs.