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Small Batch Eid Cookies with Fun Decorating Ideas for Kids Recipe

4.4 from 115 reviews

These Small Batch Eid Cookies are soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats enhanced with lemon zest for a refreshing flavor. Perfectly sized for a small gathering, these cookies are made with simple ingredients and decorated with royal icing, making them a fun and creative baking project, especially for kids during Eid celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 0.5 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 0.5 cup butter
  • 1 pc egg yolk (optional)
  • 1.25 cup flour
  • pinch of salt

Royal Icing

  • 200 g royal icing mix (or homemade alternative)
  • 1.5 cup icing sugar
  • 2.5 tbsp milk
  • 0.25 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.125 tsp salt
  • a few icing colours
  • brushes for decorating

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Mix Butter, Sugar, and Lemon Zest: In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, sugar, and lemon zest until the mixture is smooth but not overworked to maintain a tender crumb.
  3. Add Egg Yolk: Beat in the egg yolk for 30 seconds to enrich the dough, adding flavor and a softer texture. This step is optional for those who prefer eggless cookies.
  4. Incorporate Flour and Salt: Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined to form a dough.
  5. Chill the Dough: If the dough feels warm or sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out and helps prevent spreading during baking.
  6. Prepare Rolling Surface: Flour your work surface generously to prevent sticking. Transfer the chilled dough onto the surface, press it together, and lightly knead to smooth it.
  7. Roll and Cut Shapes: Roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape the cookies, creating festive and fun designs for Eid.
  8. Bake Cookies: Place the cut cookies on the lined baking sheet and bake for roughly 10 minutes or until the edges turn golden, indicating they are done.
  9. Repeat Rolling and Cutting: Gather any remaining dough, knead gently, roll out, and cut more shapes until all dough is used.
  10. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool entirely on a wire rack before decorating to prevent the icing from melting.
  11. Prepare Royal Icing: Choose between using the store-bought royal icing mix or making your own by mixing icing sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until just combined for the perfect consistency.
  12. Decorate Cookies: Use various icing colors and brushes to decorate the cooled cookies. Let kids get creative with designs and colors for a fun activity.
  13. Set the Icing: Allow the decorated cookies to sit at room temperature until the icing is fully set and hardened, ensuring the decorations stay intact.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
  • If you prefer vegan or egg-free cookies, omit the egg yolk and consider adding a tablespoon of applesauce or yogurt as a binding agent.
  • Use gel food coloring for more vibrant icing colors without thinning out your royal icing.
  • Store the decorated cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • Encourage kids to participate in decorating for a fun and engaging Eid activity.

Keywords: Eid cookies, royal icing cookies, lemon zest cookies, small batch cookies, festive cookies, kids decorating cookies, halal dessert