# Components:
→ 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)
→ Decoration
09 - 1 cup powdered sugar
10 - 1–2 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, edible glitter (optional)
# Method Steps:
01 - Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
02 - Beat unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
03 - Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, then beat until fully combined.
04 - Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms, taking care not to overmix.
05 - Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into oval or round shapes using cookie cutters or a glass.
08 - Arrange cookies 1 inch apart on prepared sheets and bake for 10 to 12 minutes 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 of the icing brown with gel food coloring.
10 - Spread brown icing on cooled cookies to resemble reindeer faces. Attach red candies for noses, black candies for eyes, and mini pretzels for antlers using icing. Add sprinkles or glitter if desired and let icing set before serving.
