Back to School Royal Icing Cookies How to Decorate First Day Treats

As summer winds down and the school bells start ringing, it’s time to celebrate the return to the classroom with some delightful treats! I can’t think of a better way to welcome back teachers and students than with these vibrant Back to School Royal Icing Cookies. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they also taste absolutely divine! Plus, if you’re looking for easy pasta recipes for those busy weeknights, I’ve got you covered with some quick family dinners that will keep everyone happy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for the first day of school celebrations.
• Customizable designs to match your school colors or themes.
• Fun activity to do with kids, making it a great bonding experience.
• Nut-free option, making it safe for school lunches.
• Deliciously sweet and beautifully decorated, these cookies are sure to impress!

Ingredients

To create these stunning Royal Icing Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons meringue powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)
• 2 tablespoons corn syrup
• Americolor food coloring (for vibrant shades)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making these gorgeous cookies!

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs and pure vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
7. For the royal icing, combine powdered sugar, meringue powder, and water in a bowl. Mix until smooth and glossy. Add corn syrup for a shinier finish.
8. Divide the icing into bowls and tint with Americolor food coloring to create vibrant shades.
9. Decorate your cooled cookies with the royal icing using piping bags or squeeze bottles. Let the icing dry completely before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Back to School Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking.
• Use a toothpick to create intricate designs with the royal icing.
• Let the icing dry completely before stacking or packaging the cookies.
• Experiment with different colors and designs to make custom cookies that reflect your school spirit!

How to Serve

These cookies are perfect for serving at school events, parties, or even as a sweet surprise in your child’s lunchbox. You can arrange them on a platter with a cute school decorations theme or package them in clear bags tied with colorful ribbons for a delightful gift. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to get a head start, you can make the cookie dough ahead of time and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. The decorated cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, consider freezing the undecorated cookies and icing them when you’re ready to serve.

So, whether you’re preparing for the first day of school or just looking for a fun baking project, these Royal Icing Cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out my White Chicken Enchiladas for a quick family dinner or my Zero Point Chicken Salad for a healthy lunch option. Happy baking!