Step 1: Make the cookie dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Shape the cookies
- Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1.5 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm.
Step 3: Bake the cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the icing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or cream), and vanilla or almond extract until smooth. Add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if the icing is too thick.
- Divide the icing into separate bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.
Step 5: Decorate the cookies
- Spread or drizzle the icing over the cooled cookies.
- Add holiday sprinkles, edible glitter, or other festive decorations before the icing sets.
Step 6: Serve and store
- Let the icing harden for about 30 minutes before serving or storing. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.