1. Make the cookie dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Preheat the oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

3. Shape the gnome cookies

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thickness.
2. Use a triangle-shaped cookie cutter or cut triangle shapes by hand for the gnome hats.
3. Use a round cutter or shape circles for the faces and beards.
4. Assemble the cookies by attaching the triangular hats to the round bases. Pinch the top of the hats slightly to create a whimsical curve if desired.

4. Bake the cookies

1. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
2. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Decorate the cookies

1. Use red royal icing to decorate the gnome hats. Optionally, attach mini marshmallows to the edges of the hats for a fluffy trim.
2. Pipe white royal icing to create the gnome’s beard, using a zigzag pattern for texture.
3. Add candy or chocolate chips for the noses, just under the hats.
4. Use black royal icing to add eyes or other details if desired.

6. Serve

• Allow the icing to set completely before serving or packaging the cookies. These cookies are perfect for gifting or as a centerpiece for your dessert table.