# Ingredients:
→ Sugar Cookie Dough
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
→ Decorating
09 - 1 cup powdered sugar
10 - 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
11 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Brown gel food coloring
13 - Red candy-coated chocolates (for noses)
14 - Black candy-coated chocolates (for eyes)
15 - Mini pretzels (for antlers)
16 - Sprinkles and edible glitter (optional)
# Instructions:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
02 - In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, then beat until fully integrated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until dough forms without overworking.
05 - Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disc, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
07 - Roll out chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into oval or round shapes using cookie cutters or a glass.
08 - Arrange cookies 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges begin to turn golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
09 - Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and pourable. Tint a portion of icing with brown gel food coloring.
10 - Spread the brown icing over each cooled cookie to represent reindeer faces. Attach red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers using icing. Optionally add sprinkles or edible glitter. Allow icing to set completely before serving.
