Advent Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 400 degree F.
2. 2
   Mix all of the ingredients together, except for the flour.
3. 3
   Add the flour slowly to the rest of the mixture until it reaches the right consistency to roll out.
4. 4
   The dough should be quite soft.
5. 5
   (You may find it easier to knead it with your hands.)
6. 6
   Roll out on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/4 inch and cut into decorative shapes with small cookie cutters, a sharp knife or the rim of a glass.
7. 7
   Place on a greased baking sheet and bake in the oven for about 8 minutes.
8. 8
   Remove from the oven while they are still soft and cool on a rack, then pack into crocks or jars.
9. 9
   The authors note that the Pennsylvania Dutch settlers made these at Thanksgiving and stored them in a stoneware crock until Christmas.
10. 10
    The cookies can be made at any time, but allowed to age for 4 to 6 weeks.
11. 11
    They can be used as a substitute for graham crackers for a pie crust.