Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Buttery – These cookies have the perfect texture, slightly crisp on the edges and soft inside.
- Elegant and Decorative – The dove shape with white royal icing makes them perfect for celebrations.
- Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime.
- Customizable – Change the icing colors or add different decorations to fit any theme.
- Great for Gifting – These cookies make beautiful and thoughtful homemade gifts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Large egg
- Vanilla extract
- Almond extract (optional)
- White royal icing
- Edible silver pearls or sprinkles
Directions
- Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – Beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Combine Dough – Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Roll and Cut – Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a dove-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
- Bake – Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely.
- Decorate – Once cooled, decorate with white royal icing and add edible silver pearls or sprinkles for a peaceful dove design.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies (depending on cookie cutter size)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: Optional, 30 minutes (for firmer dough)
- Bake Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes
Variations
- Lemon Zest – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a refreshing citrus twist.
- Chocolate Dipped – Dip half of each cookie in melted white or dark chocolate.
- Colored Icing – Use pastel royal icing for a more colorful and festive look.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- Spiced Flavor – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Refrigeration – Can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing – Freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and decorate when ready.
- Reheating – If needed, warm cookies in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh them.
FAQs
How do I keep my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out helps maintain the shape.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Do I need to use almond extract?
No, it’s optional. If you prefer, you can replace it with more vanilla extract.
What if I don’t have a dove-shaped cutter?
You can use any cookie cutter shape or cut out a simple bird shape by hand.
How do I make royal icing?
Mix powdered sugar, egg whites (or meringue powder), and a little water until smooth.
Can I decorate with something other than royal icing?
Yes! Try melted chocolate or a simple powdered sugar glaze.
How do I make my cookies extra soft?
Avoid overbaking and use a little cornstarch in the dough for a softer texture.
Can I use store-bought cookie dough?
Yes, but homemade dough gives the best flavor and texture.
How long does royal icing take to dry?
It usually takes about 4–6 hours at room temperature to fully set.
What’s the best way to package these cookies for gifting?
Layer them between parchment paper in a decorative tin or clear gift bag with a ribbon.
Conclusion
Dove sugar cookies are not only beautiful but also delicious and easy to make. Whether for a holiday, wedding, or just a special treat, these elegant cookies will impress. With a soft, buttery texture and customizable decorations, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy a peaceful, sweet delight!
Dove Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 30–40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dove sugar cookies are soft, buttery, and elegantly decorated with royal icing and edible silver pearls. Perfect for weddings, holidays, and special occasions, these delicate cookies have a hint of vanilla and optional almond extract for a classic flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- White royal icing
- Edible silver pearls or sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat Oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar – Beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients – Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).
- Combine Dough – Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a smooth dough forms.
- Roll and Cut – Roll dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Use a dove-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
- Bake – Arrange cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
- Decorate – Once cooled, decorate with white royal icing and add edible silver pearls or sprinkles.
Notes
- For firmer dough: Chill for 30 minutes before rolling.
- For softer cookies: Add 1 teaspoon cornstarch to the dry ingredients.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze undecorated cookies for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
