Star cookies
(serves 4-6)
Prep time: 30 mins Baking time: 18 mins
2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract icing, assorted candies, sprinkles, or coloured sugars, to decorate (optional)
1 In large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder and salt. In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla. With the mixer on low, gradually add the flour mixture and beat until combined.
2 Divide the dough in half then flatten into discs. Wrap each disc in cling film and freeze until firm, at least 20 minutes. The dough can be placed in a resealable plastic bag and frozen for up to 3 months (thaw in the refrigerator overnight).
3 Preheat the oven to 170°C. Line baking sheets with parchment. Remove one dough disc from the fridge and let it stand for 5-10 minutes. Roll out the dough between two sheets of floured parchment until it’s 5mm-thick, dusting with flour as needed. Remove the top sheet of parchment and cut shapes with cookie cutters. Using a spatula, transfer to prepared baking sheets. (If dough gets soft, chill for 10 minutes.) Reroll scraps and repeat. Repeat with second disc of dough.
4 Bake, rotating baking sheets halfway through to ensure even cooking, until edges are golden, 10 to 18 minutes (depending on size). Cool completely on wire racks then ice and decorate.