Description

Crisp-edged, soft-centered sugar cookies topped with dramatic black cocoa royal icing. This reliable, kid-approved recipe is perfect for Halloween parties and can be made ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups (360g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons black cocoa powder
2 large pasteurized egg whites
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Black gel food coloring (optional)

Instructions

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (3-6 minutes).
Beat in the egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
Divide the dough in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness and cut into shapes.
Place cookies on baking sheets, leaving an inch between each.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden; centers should still look soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, sift together confectioners’ sugar and black cocoa powder.
Add pasteurized egg whites and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; whisk until smooth and thick (consistency of heavy cream).
Transfer icing to a piping bag and pipe details onto cooled cookies.
Let icing dry for 2-4 hours until hard to the touch.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted to prevent flat cookies. Chill dough thoroughly to maintain shape. Sift confectioners’ sugar for smooth icing. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Do not refrigerate iced cookies as humidity can soften the icing.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 180
Sugar: 18
Sodium: 90
Fat: 7
Saturated Fat: 4
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 1
Protein: 2

Keywords: Halloween cookies, sugar cookies, black cocoa royal icing, spooky treats, easy baking, kid-friendly recipes