• Prep Your Ingredients: Take the butter out 1–2 hours before baking to soften. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Dough:

• In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
• Lower the speed and mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Scrape the bowl again.
• Add the baking powder and salt, mixing until combined.
• Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, until the dough comes together.

Roll and Cut:

• Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin.
• Roll out the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
• Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, then carefully transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
• Place cookies at least 2 inches apart to prevent spreading.

Bake:

• Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
• Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Icing:

• In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
• Adjust consistency with more milk (for thinner icing) or powdered sugar (for thicker icing).

Decorate:

• Spread icing with a spatula or use an icing bag for detailed designs.
• Add food coloring for vibrant, festive cookies!