# Ingredient List:
→ Dough
01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Decoration
08 - 1 2/3 cups powdered sugar
09 - 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
10 - Gel or liquid food coloring in gray, pink, and black
11 - Edible candy eyes or chocolate chips (optional)
# Step-by-Step Instructions:
01 - Heat oven to 350°F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
03 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition; then mix in vanilla extract.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
05 - Gradually add dry mixture to wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough develops.
06 - Divide dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 30 minutes if possible.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to approximately 1/2 inch thickness.
08 - Using a large elephant cookie cutter or paper template and knife, cut shapes from dough.
09 - Transfer cookies to prepared sheets, spacing evenly. Bake 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on wire racks.
10 - Mix powdered sugar with milk until smooth and spreadable. Divide and tint with food coloring as desired.
11 - Spread gray icing on cookie bodies, pink on ears, and black for details. Add edible eyes or chocolate chips. Allow icing to set before serving.
