Sugar Cookies with Brown Butter Icing

Ingredients:

For the Sugar Cookies:

2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Brown Butter Icing:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk (more as needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Make the Sugar Cookies:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Make the Brown Butter Icing:

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a golden brown color and has a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
Remove from heat and let the brown butter cool for about 10 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown butter, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and creamy, adding more milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Decorate the Cookies:

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of brown butter icing on each cookie. You can also drizzle the icing for a decorative touch.
Tips:
For added flavor, you can sprinkle some sea salt on top of the icing before it sets.
Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Cooking Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Enjoy your Sugar Cookies with Brown Butter Icing—a delightful treat perfect for any occasion!