Save Enchant your guests with these whimsical seashell-shaped sugar cookies, decorated in shimmering pastel colors& perfect for a magical mermaid-themed party.
This recipe has become a favorite at our family gatherings, always impressing guests with the delicate decoration and delicious flavor.
Ingredients
- Cookie Dough: 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter softened, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Royal Icing & Decorations: 2 cups (240 g) powdered sugar sifted, 1 1/2 tbsp meringue powder, 3 tbsp water plus more as needed, Gel food coloring (pastel pink, lavender, turquoise, teal), Edible pearl sprinkles, Edible shimmer dust optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add egg and vanilla extract beat until combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut out seashell shapes using a seashell cookie cutter.
- Step 8:
- Place cookies 1 inch apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes until edges are just barely golden. Cool completely on wire racks.
- Step 10:
- For icing, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water in a bowl. Beat until stiff peaks form. Divide icing into bowls and tint with desired gel food colors.
- Step 11:
- Decorate cooled cookies with royal icing, adding pearl sprinkles and shimmer dust for a magical effect. Allow icing to set before serving.
Save Baking these cookies always brings back fond memories as my kids eagerly help decorate each shell with colorful icing and sprinkles.
Required Tools
Electric mixer, Mixing bowls, Rolling pin, Seashell cookie cutter, Baking sheets, Parchment paper, Piping bags and tips, Cooling rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter). May contain traces of nuts if ingredients are processed in shared facilities check labels if concerned.
Nutritional Information
Calories 140, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 21 g, Protein 1 g per cookie
Save These seashell cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, combining charm and flavor in every bite.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking?
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes firms it up, helping the cookies hold their seashell shape while baking.
- → What is the purpose of meringue powder in the icing?
Meringue powder helps create a stiff, stable royal icing that dries smooth and is perfect for detailed decoration.
- → Can I use other colors besides the pastel shades suggested?
Absolutely! Any gel food coloring works well; adjusting hue allows for personalization to fit various themes.
- → What is the best way to store these decorated cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness and decoration.
- → Can almond extract replace vanilla extract in the dough?
Replacing half the vanilla with almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor without overpowering the sweetness.