# Ingredient List:
→ 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 - 1–2 tablespoons milk
11 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Brown gel food coloring
13 - Red and black candy-coated chocolates (for noses and eyes)
14 - Mini pretzels (for antlers)
15 - Sprinkles, edible glitter (optional)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until 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 egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, then beat until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing slowly until a soft dough forms.
05 - Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, wrap with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour.
06 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a quarter-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or glass to cut into oval or round shapes to represent reindeer faces.
08 - Place cookies on the prepared baking sheets spaced 1 inch apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - In a bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Tint a portion of the icing brown using gel food coloring.
10 - Spread the brown icing over each cooled cookie for the reindeer face. Attach red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers using icing as adhesive. Optionally, add sprinkles or edible glitter. Allow icing to set before serving.
