Decorated 4th of July Cookies

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Patriotic Perfection: Royal Icing Decorated 4th of July Cookies

Step into a world of festive flair with our Royal Icing Decorated 4th of July Cookies, where each bite is a celebration of patriotism and sweet indulgence. Crafted with care and adorned with vibrant colors and whimsical designs, these star-shaped cookies and cookie sticks are the perfect addition to your Independence Day festivities.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the royal icing:

• 2 large egg whites
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Red and blue gel food coloring

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Using star-shaped cookie cutters, cut out star-shaped cookies and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
9. For the cookie sticks, cut the remaining portion of dough into thin strips and place them onto the baking sheets.
10. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before decorating.

Royal Icing:

1. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cream of tartar, beating until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Divide the royal icing into three portions, keeping one portion white and coloring the other two portions with red and blue gel food coloring.
4. Transfer each colored icing to separate piping bags fitted with small round tips.

Decorating:

1. Using the white royal icing, outline and flood the star-shaped cookies and cookie sticks, allowing the icing to set for a few minutes.
2. Using the airbrush machine, spray red and blue stars, stripes, and polka dots onto the cookies, creating a festive design.
3. Allow the decorated cookies to dry completely before serving or packaging for gifting.

Presentation:

Arrange the Royal Icing Decorated 4th of July Cookies on a platter or in decorative packaging, showcasing the vibrant colors and patriotic designs. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, fireworks display, or as a sweet treat for loved ones, these cookies are sure to spark joy and admiration. Let freedom ring with each delightful bite!