# What you'll 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)
# Method:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly combined.
02 - Beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using; beat until thoroughly combined.
04 - Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
05 - Divide dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
06 - Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness and cut into oval or round shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
08 - Arrange cookies 1 inch apart on prepared sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
09 - Combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Tint part of the icing with brown gel coloring.
10 - Spread brown icing over cooled cookies for the reindeer face. Attach red candies as noses, black candies as eyes, and mini pretzels as antlers using icing as adhesive. Optionally, add sprinkles or edible glitter. Let icing set before serving.
