# Components:
→ 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 - Gray, pink, and black food coloring (gel or liquid)
11 - Edible candy eyes or chocolate chips (optional)
# Preparation steps:
01 - Set oven to 350°F and 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, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Whisk all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl until evenly blended.
05 - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
06 - Divide dough in half, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for easier handling if possible.
07 - On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/2 inch thickness.
08 - Using a large elephant-shaped cutter or a paper template and knife, cut out cookies.
09 - Place cookies on prepared sheets spacing them to allow for slight expansion.
10 - Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden, then cool completely on a wire rack.
11 - Mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth and spreadable, then divide and tint with desired food coloring.
12 - Spread icing on cooled cookies, using gray for the body, pink for ears, black for details, and add edible eyes or chocolate chips. Allow icing to set before serving.
