Apple Shaped Sugar Cookies
Classic buttery shortbread sugar cookies decorated with red royal icing and mint leaf stems.
Tender cut-out butter sugar cookies shaped like bright red apples. Perfect for school snacks, fall bake sales, and teacher appreciation gifts.
Key Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Baking Sheet
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Mise en Place: Measure and prep all ingredients before you turn on the stove. This recipe moves quickly, and having everything ready prevents burning.
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, whole garlic cloves, and fresh herbs instead of dried/jarred versions. The flavor difference is huge!
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Leave room between ingredients. If the pan is overloaded, the moisture will steam the food instead of browning it.
Ingredients
24
servings
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg, room temperature
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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2 tsp baking powder
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2 cups red royal icing, for decorating
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make Dough & Chill
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in flour and baking powder. Chill dough for 30 minutes.
Cut & Bake
Roll dough 1/4-inch thick. Cut with apple cookie cutters. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are light golden.
Ice & Serve
Allow cookies to cool completely. Outline and flood with glossy red royal icing. Add chocolate stem and green leaf detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allow the food to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Yes! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Use our interactive servings adjuster at the top of the ingredients list! Simply click the '+' or '-' buttons to automatically scale all ingredient quantities up or down to match your guest count.
Absolutely! For gluten-free modifications, swap standard grains or soy sauces with tamari or certified gluten-free options. For plant-based alternatives, choose coconut milk or vegetable broth in place of dairy and chicken products.