Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (150g) powdered sugar (icing sugar)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
  • 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) cream of tartar
  • ½ teaspoon (3g) salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar (icing sugar), sifted (for frosting)
  • ¼ cup (60ml) heavy cream (double cream) (for frosting)
  • 2 teaspoons (10ml) vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • Pinch of salt (for frosting)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  7. Roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Cut out shapes using cookie cutters, or use a cookie scoop to drop rounded portions onto the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. While the cookies are cooling, make the buttercream frosting. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
  11. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Beat in the vanilla extract and salt.
  12. Once the cookies are completely cool, frost them with the buttercream frosting. You can use a piping bag and tip for a fancy swirl, or simply spread the frosting on with a knife.
  13. Enjoy!