# What You'll Need:
→ For the Sugar Cookies
01 - 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
04 - 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
05 - 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar
06 - 1 large egg
07 - 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
08 - Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
→ For the Star Royal Icing
09 - 2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar, sifted
10 - 2 tablespoons meringue powder
11 - 3–4 tablespoons warm water
12 - Gel food coloring in yellow, gold, and other celestial tones
13 - Edible glitter or golden sugar pearls (optional)
# Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
02 - In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
03 - Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until fully incorporated.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
05 - Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
06 - Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
07 - Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick. Cut with Gemini or star-shaped cookie cutters; place cutouts 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
08 - Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are just golden. Cool on sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
09 - Prepare the royal icing: In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, meringue powder, and 3 tablespoons water. Add more water as needed to reach piping consistency.
10 - Divide and color the icing as desired. Pipe stars, zodiac symbols, and decorative details onto cooled cookies. Garnish with edible glitter or pearls if using. Allow icing to set completely before serving or packaging.
