Elf Cookies

Name: Elf Cookies
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 28 cookies.
Ingredients: 1/2 (16.5 oz) tube refrigerated sugar cookie dough, softened; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 2-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar; 10 teaspoons water; 4 teaspoons meringue powder; Assorted food coloring; Assorted sprinkles, candies and almond slices

A sweet frosting glaze, colorful candies and well-placed almond slices turn these sugar cookie diamonds into a big batch of Santa’s helpers. TIP: Bake a batch of the adorable elves as a classroom treat or use a few to brighten each of your cookie trays. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Ingredients

1/2 (16.5 oz) tube refrigerated sugar cookie dough, softened
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
2-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
10 teaspoons water
4 teaspoons meringue powder
Assorted food coloring
Assorted sprinkles, candies and almond slices

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. In a small bowl, beat cookie dough and flour until combined. Roll out on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 1-3/4x3-1/4-in. diamond cookie cutter. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake until edges are golden brown, 7-9 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely.
In a large bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, water and meringue powder; beat on low speed just until blended. Beat on high until stiff peaks form, 4-5 minutes. Divide icing into portions and tint as desired. Keep unused icing covered at all times with a damp cloth. If necessary, beat again on high speed to restore texture.
Frost and decorate cookies as desired with assorted sprinkles and candies; add almonds for ears.