Sugar Cookies with Royal Icing

Instructions

Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixer, cream together butter and sugar until smooth.
2. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and almond extract.
3. Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt increments.
4. Separate dough into two portions, flatten and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill dough for at least two hours (or overnight).
5. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on a cookie sheet and freeze for at least one hour or overnight.
7. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
8. Bake cookies one inch apart for 9 to 10 mins.

Royal Icing

1. Place sugar and meringue powder in a mixer and mix at low speed. Do not use a whisk attachment.
2. While mixer is on low, add water and vanilla. Mix for 5 to 7 minutes.
3. To prevent drying out, keep the bowl and icing tips covered with a damp towel.