Flooded Christmas Light Cookies

Brown Sugar Roll-Out Cookies

 

3/4 c. unsalted butter

1 1/2 c. dark brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tbsp. milk, half and half, or orange juice

2 tsp. extract or emulsion {I used orange and vanilla}

1 tsp. baking powder

1/2 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

3 c. all-purpose flour

2 tsp. cinnamon {spices optional}

1 tsp. nutmeg

dash ground cloves

 

Cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs, extract, and orange juice. Mix until fluffy. Sift together dry ingredients a cupful or so at a time until all of the dry mixture is incorporated. The dough should be soft but not sticky. If it’s sticky, add flour little by little until it isn’t. Divide dough into three parts, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes. Roll to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes. Dusting lightly with flour as needed. Bake 375 for 8-10 minutes until tops are not shiny.

 

 

Royal Icing

 

2 pounds {one bag} confectioner’s sugar {907 grams}

5 tablespoons meringue powder {approximately 53 grams}

2-3 teaspoons oil-free extract or emulsion

1/2-3/4 cups warm water

Instructions

 

Begin by stirring the flavoring into half the water. Using a paddle attachment, gently mix the sugar and meringue powder. It’s not necessary to sift the sugar beforehand, but you can if you like. With the mixer on it’s lowest setting slowly add the water/flavoring mix to the dry ingredients. As the water is added, the icing will become thick and lumpy. Continue to add the remaining water {this may or may not be the entire amount} until the mixture reaches a thick, honey like consistency. At this point, turn the mixer to medium speed and whip 2-4 minutes until this icing is thick and fluffy. Mixing time can vary greatly so watch carefully and stop mixing when the icing is this enough to form a soft peak. Notes:  Don’t be afraid to experiment by adding corn syrup, glycerin, or cream of tartar to the mixture. Use a fan for a smooth shiny finish. Royal icing can be affected by many variables. With a little time and patience, you will find your perfect match.

 

https://www.sweetsugarbelle.com/2011/07/outlining-and-filling-cookies-with-royal-icing/