Elf Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   In a small mixing bowl, beat cookie dough and flour until combined.
2. 2
   Roll out on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-in.
3. 3
   thickness.
4. 4
   Cut with a floured 1-3/4-in.
5. 5
   x 3-1/4-in.
6. 6
   diamond cookie cutter.
7. 7
   Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
8. 8
   Bake at 350 for 7-9 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
9. 9
   Remove to wire racks to cool.
10. 10
    For one batch of glaze, in a small bowl, combine 3/4 cup confectioners' sugar, 4-1/2 teaspoons milk and 1/4 teaspoon extract.
11. 11
    Remove 1 tablespoon glaze to another bowl.
12. 12
    Tint remaining glaze with 3 drops food coloring.
13. 13
    Working with one cookie at a time, spread red glaze over top half of cookie.
14. 14
    Place one M&M at top for tassel and four M&M's across edge of glaze for hat brim.
15. 15
    For ears, place two almonds above M&M's on each end.
16. 16
    Dip baking bits in plain glaze; place brown bits on cookie for eyes and a red bit for nose.
17. 17
    Repeat with 13 more cookies.
18. 18
    Make second batch of glaze with remaining confectioners' sugar, milk, extract and food coloring.
19. 19
    Decorate remaining cookies as above.