Butter Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Combine 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup butter, egg and 1 tsp vanilla in large bowl.
2. 2
   Beat on low, scraping bowl often, until creamy.
3. 3
   Sift in flour and baking soda and beat until well mixed.
4. 4
   Divide dough in half.
5. 5
   Cover each half in plastic wrap.
6. 6
   Refrigerate until firm (at least 2 hours).
7. 7
   Preheat oven to 375°F Roll out 1/2 the dough on lightly floured surface (I use 1/2 flour 1/2 confectioners sugar).
8. 8
   Keep remaining dough chilled.
9. 9
   Roll dough out to 1/8 to 1/4-inch thickness.
10. 10
    Cut with 4-inch cookie cutter.
11. 11
    Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.
12. 12
    Sprinkle with decorator sugars, if desired.
13. 13
    Bake for 6 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
14. 14
    Ornaments:
15. 15
    While cookies are still warm, use toothpick to make holes for ribbons to hang cookies as ornaments.
16. 16
    Cool completely.
17. 17
    Frosting or filling: Combine 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla in small bowl.
18. 18
    Beat at low speed, scraping bowl often and adding enough milk for desired frosting consistency.
19. 19
    Tint with food color, if desired.