Lemon Icebox Cookies

Directions

1. 1
   Beat butter and sugars at medium speed with an electric mixer until fluffy. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Add grated lemon rind and lemon juice, beating until blended.
2. 2
   Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually add to butter mixture, beating just until blended.
3. 3
   Divide dough into 3 equal portions; roll each portion on wax paper to a 12-inch log. Cover and chill 8 hours.
4. 4
   Cut each log into 1/2-inch slices (about 28 slices), and place on lightly greased baking sheets.
5. 5
   Bake at 350° for 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. Store cookies in an airtight container, or freeze, if desired.
6. 6
   Lemon-Coconut Cookies: Add 1 cup toasted coconut; proceed with recipe as directed.
7. 7
   Lemon-Almond Cookies: Add 1 cup sliced almonds, toasted; proceed with recipe as directed.
8. 8
   Lemon-Poppy Seed Cookies: Add 2 teaspoons poppy seeds; proceed with recipe as directed.
9. 9
   Lemon-Pecan Cookies: Add 1 cup finely chopped pecans, toasted; proceed with recipe as directed.
10. 10
    You can freeze this simple dough up to two months.