Spooky Jack-o’-Lantern Cookies (Ready-to-Print Version)

Crisp, buttery pumpkin-shaped cookies decorated with black icing faces bring festive fall charm.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 large egg
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
08 - Orange food coloring, as needed

→ Decoration

09 - Black royal icing for Jack-o’-Lantern faces

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy.
03 - Beat in the egg followed by the vanilla extract until fully combined.
04 - Gradually blend in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until a dough forms.
05 - Add orange food coloring and knead the dough gently to achieve an even tint.
06 - Roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness and use a pumpkin-shaped cutter to cut out cookie shapes.
07 - Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden.
08 - Allow cookies to cool completely before piping Jack-o’-Lantern faces with black royal icing.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Ensure the butter is softened to achieve a smooth, creamy dough consistency.