# The Ingredients You'll Need:
→ Cookie Dough
01 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
→ Royal Icing & Decorations
08 - 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
09 - 1 1/2 tablespoons meringue powder
10 - 3 tablespoons water, plus more as needed
11 - Gel food coloring (pastel pink, lavender, turquoise, teal)
12 - Edible pearl sprinkles
13 - Edible shimmer dust, optional
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
02 - Beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
03 - Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
05 - Divide dough into two equal portions, form each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a seashell cookie cutter to create shapes.
08 - Place cookies 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets.
09 - Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely on wire racks.
10 - Mix powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water in a bowl; beat until stiff peaks form. Divide into bowls and tint with desired gel food coloring.
11 - Pipe royal icing onto cooled cookies, add edible pearl sprinkles and optional shimmer dust. Allow icing to dry completely before serving.
