Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour1 cup sugar1 teaspoon baking soda1/4 teaspoon salt1/2 cup shortening1/2 cup cold butter2 large eggs1 tablespoon whole milk1 teaspoon vanilla extractFROSTING:1/2 cup butter, softened4 cups confectioners’ sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 to 4 tablespoons half-and-half creamFood coloring, optional Colored sugar, optional Decorating candies, optional
Preparation
Combine flour, granulated sugar, baking soda and salt. Cut in shortening and butter until crumbly. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk and vanilla; add to flour mixture and mix well. Divide dough into three balls; cover and refrigerate until easy to handle, about 2 hours.
Preheat oven to 325°. Remove one portion of dough from the refrigerator at a time. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to 1/4-in. thickness. Cut with a floured 2-in. cookie cutter. Place 1 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Repeat with remaining dough.
Bake until edges are lightly browned, 8-10 minutes. Cool 1 minute before removing to wire racks to cool completely.
For frosting, cream butter, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla and enough cream to achieve spreading consistency. If desired, tint with food coloring. Frost cookies. Decorate with colored sugar and candies if desired.
