Go Back
A decorated platter of homemade graduation cookies shaped like caps and diplomas, featuring royal icing in vibrant school colors.
Print Recipe

Graduation Cookies

Graduation cookies are the perfect treat for celebrating academic milestones. This guide walks you through a simple yet delicious sugar cookie recipe, complete with royal icing for decoration. Whether you're making cap-shaped cookies, diplomas, or personalized designs, these cookies will be a hit at any graduation party.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Resting Time:30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 10 minutes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 200kcal

Equipment

  • Graduation-themed cookie cutters
  • Rolling Pin
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Hand or stand mixer
  • Piping bags and decorating tips
  • Edible markers
  • Cooling racks

Ingredients

Sugar Cookie Dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

Royal Icing:

  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 3 tbsp egg whites or meringue powder
  • 5-6 tbsp water
  • Food coloring (black, blue, red, etc.)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough:
    Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
    Mix in the egg and vanilla extract.
    In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
    Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.
    Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Cut & Bake the Cookies:
    Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    Roll out dough to ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
    Use graduation-themed cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
    Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
    Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden.
    Let cookies cool completely before decorating.
  • Prepare & Decorate with Royal Icing:
    Mix powdered sugar, egg whites, and water until smooth.
    Divide icing into bowls and tint with food coloring as desired.
    Use piping bags to outline and fill cookies with icing.
    Let cookies dry completely before handling.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, use almond or gluten-free flour.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
  • Experiment with edible glitter or metallic dust for extra decoration.