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Perfect Diploma Roll Sugar Cookies

diploma roll sugar cookies - featured image

These diploma roll sugar cookies feature a tender, buttery base with a smooth royal icing finish, perfect for celebrations like graduations or any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons whole milk
  • 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2 large egg whites or 4 tablespoons meringue powder mixed with 6 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice or vanilla extract
  • Food coloring gels (optional)
  • Optional decorations: edible gold or silver dust, thin ribbons of colored icing

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  2. Using a mixer, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
  4. Gradually add the flour mixture alternating with milk, mixing just until incorporated. Dough should be soft but not sticky.
  5. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll each dough disc to about ¼ inch thickness on a floured surface.
  7. Cut dough into rectangles about 3 x 2 inches. Roll each rectangle into a tight scroll shape and pinch edges to seal.
  8. Place rolls seam-side down on parchment-lined baking sheets, spaced 1 inch apart.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are just golden. Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Prepare royal icing by beating powdered sugar with egg whites (or meringue powder mix) and lemon juice or vanilla until thick and glossy. Adjust consistency with water as needed.
  11. Use piping bags to outline each roll with thicker icing, then flood inside with thinner icing if desired. Add decorative ribbons or scroll details.
  12. Let icing dry completely overnight to set.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs and butter for smooth mixing. Chill dough for at least 1 hour to prevent spreading. Roll dough gently to avoid cracking edges. Let royal icing dry overnight for best results. Practice piping on parchment paper if new to decorating. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations are possible with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: diploma roll sugar cookies, royal icing cookies, graduation cookies, scroll sugar cookies, homemade sugar cookies, easy sugar cookies, decorated cookies