Chocolate Shortbread Trees

Directions

1. 1
   Heat oven to 350F.
2. 2
   Combine butter, powdered sugar and vanilla in large bowl.
3. 3
   Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy.
4. 4
   Add flour, cocoa and cinnamon; beat at low speed until well mixed.
5. 5
   Roll out dough on lightly floured surface, one-half at a time (keeping remaining dough refrigerated), to 1/4-inch thickness.
6. 6
   Cut with 2 1/2- to 3-inch tree-shaped cookie cutters.
7. 7
   Place 1 inch apart onto ungreased cookie sheets.
8. 8
   Bake 8-10 minutes or until set.
9. 9
   Cool 1 minute on cookie sheet.
10. 10
    Cool completely.
11. 11
    Melt baking chips and shortening in 1-quart saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, 2-3 minutes or until smooth.
12. 12
    Place icing in small resealable plastic food bag.
13. 13
    Snip 1/8-inch off one corner.
14. 14
    Pipe icing as desired onto cooled cookies.
15. 15
    Decorate as desired.
16. 16
    Let stand until set.