Print

Mitten Cookies

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These mitten-shaped sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and perfect for holiday decorating. Adorned with colorful icing and sprinkles, they make a cheerful addition to your festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar

For the Royal Icing:

  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
  • 4 tablespoons meringue powder
  • 68 tablespoons water
  • Gel food coloring (red, green, blue, etc.)
  • Sprinkles or sanding sugar (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Cookies:
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix until well combined.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
    • Divide the dough into two equal parts, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Bake the Cookies:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
    • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
    • Use a mitten-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.
    • Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Royal Icing:
    • In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar and meringue powder.
    • Add water gradually, mixing on low speed until the icing reaches a thick but pourable consistency.
    • Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until stiff peaks form.
    • Divide the icing into separate bowls and add gel food coloring to achieve desired colors.
  • Decorate the Cookies:
    • Transfer the colored icing into piping bags fitted with small round tips.
    • Outline and flood each mitten cookie with the base color icing.
    • While the base is still wet, add decorative patterns such as stripes, polka dots, or snowflakes using contrasting colors.
    • For added sparkle, sprinkle sanding sugar or sprinkles over the wet icing.
    • Allow the decorated cookies to dry completely at room temperature before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Ensure the cookies are completely cool before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.
  • Royal icing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Adjust the consistency of the icing by adding more water (to thin) or powdered sugar (to thicken) as needed.