Print

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Hand Sugar Cookies

Easy Thanksgiving Turkey Hand Sugar Cookies - featured image
Print Recipe

These homemade sugar cookies are shaped like turkeys, featuring a crisp, buttery texture and festive icing. They are perfect for holiday parties and family baking sessions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 to 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
  • Gel food coloring in red, orange, and black

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (approx. 5 minutes).
  2. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until just combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until a dough forms.
  5. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  7. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
  8. Use turkey-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on baking sheets, leaving an inch of space between each.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden.
  10. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely.
  11. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Divide into small bowls and add gel food coloring.
  12. Pipe white icing as a base, then add orange for the beak, red for the wattle, and black for the eyes.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted to prevent spreading. Keep dough cold while rolling to maintain shape. Use gel food coloring for vibrant colors without altering consistency. Do not overbake to keep cookies tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: Thanksgiving cookies, turkey sugar cookies, holiday baking, easy sugar cookies, festive desserts, family baking

Find it online: https://livelybite.com/easy-thanksgiving-turkey-hand-sugar-cookies/