# What you need:
→ 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)
# Directions:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
02 - Using an electric mixer, beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and optional almond extract to the butter mixture; continue beating until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a cohesive dough forms.
05 - Divide dough in half, shape each into a disc, wrap tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll chilled dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into oval or round shapes using cookie cutters or a glass.
08 - Place cookies spaced 1 inch apart on prepared sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on a wire rack.
09 - Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Tint a portion with brown gel food coloring.
10 - Spread brown icing over cooled cookies to form the 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 fully before serving.
