Gingerbread Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Combine flour, spices and baking powder; set aside.
2. 2
   Beat cream cheese, brown sugar, molasses, butter and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended.
3. 3
   Gradually add flour mixture, mixing well after each addition.
4. 4
   Divide dough in half; shape each in ball.
5. 5
   Flatten slightly.
6. 6
   Wrap individually in plastic wrap.
7. 7
   Refrigerate 1 hour.
8. 8
   Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Roll out 1 dough piece on lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
9. 9
   Cut into star shapes using 2-inch cookie cutter, rerolling scraps as necessary.
10. 10
    Place, 1 inch apart, on parchment-covered baking sheets.
11. 11
    Repeat with remaining dough.
12. 12
    Bake 12 to 15 min.
13. 13
    or until edges are lightly browned.
14. 14
    Cool on baking sheets 1 min.
15. 15
    Remove to wire racks; cool completely.
16. 16
    Mix powdered sugar and water until blended; spread onto cookies.