These soft and fluffy sugar cookies are topped with a creamy frosting, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and beat until well combined.
Crack the eggs into a separate bowl first to avoid shells in the mixture.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Sifting the dry ingredients can help avoid lumps in the dough.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, until a smooth dough forms.
Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the tops remain pale.
Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft.
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a cooling rack.
Cooling on a rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.
For the frosting, beat together the powdered sugar, butter, and milk until smooth and spreadable.
Adjust the milk quantity for your desired frosting consistency.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and decorate as desired.
Add sprinkles or colored sugar for a festive touch.