1-First Step: Mise en Place: Gather all tools: mixing bowls, stand mixer or hand beaters, rolling pin, cookie cutters (bunnies, eggs, chicks), parchment-lined baking sheets. Measure ingredients precisely. Soften butter to room temperature for easy creaming. Sift dry items to avoid lumps. For dietary needs, prep swaps now, like gluten-free flour.

2-Second Step: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk 2 1/2 cups flour (or 3 cups for softer batch), 1 tsp baking powder or baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. This ensures even distribution. For no chill easter sugar cookies, add 1 extra tbsp flour. Set aside. Pro tip: Weigh flour for accuracy, about 300g per cup.

3-Third Step: Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar (or 1 1/2 cups) on medium for 2-3 minutes until pale and fluffy. Scrape bowl sides. Add 1 egg (or 2), 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp almond extract, optional lemon zest. Beat until smooth, about 1 minute. This builds structure for tender cutout cookies.

4-Fourth Step: Form Dough: Gradually mix dry into wet on low speed. Stop when just combined; dough forms a ball. If sticky, add 1 tbsp milk or flour. Divide in half, flatten into discs, wrap in plastic. Chill 30 minutes minimum, up to 1 hour for easier rolling. Vegan dough chills same way.

5-Fifth Step: Roll and Cut: Preheat oven to 350°F (or 375°F for softer). On floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-inch thick. Dip cutters in flour, cut shapes close together. Place 2 inches apart on sheets. Re-roll scraps once for best texture. For kids, let them cut fun easter motifs.

6-Sixth Step: Bake: Bake 8-10 minutes until edges lightly brown. Centers stay pale for softness. Cool on sheet 5 minutes, then wire rack fully. Yields crisp royal icing base. Low-cal version bakes same time.

7-Seventh Step: Prepare Royal Icing: Beat 3 cups powdered sugar, 2 tbsp meringue powder, 4 tbsp water to stiff peaks. Divide, tint with gel colors. Thin with water for flooding. Outline cookies, fill, add sprinkles. Dry 1-2 hours. Buttercream option: Beat 1/2 cup butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, 2 tbsp milk, vanilla.

8-Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving: Once dry, stack carefully. Serve at room temp for Easter baskets or parties. Store as below. These decorated cookies wow guests. Adapt for travelers with portable shapes.