Sugar Cookies

I can't take credit for the decor of these cookies, that was all the kids doing.  The great thing about sugar cookies is that they are so versatile and just so much fun!  They are also E's favorite flavor to eat.  I got this recipe from my sister who got it from a friend.  Who knows where it originated....  It is by far my favorite sugar cookie recipe.  It also works well egg free - which not all recipes do.  The recipe makes lots of cookies - I halved it and we still had plenty - but when I make them to give away at the holidays, it's nice to make the full batch.  The frosting recipe is yummy, but I didn't use it this time... sometimes store bought is just easier.

Ingredients

3/4 cup shortening
3/4 cup margarine
2 cups sugar
4 large unbeaten eggs (or egg replacer equivalent)
2 tsp vanilla
5 or 6 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp salt

1. Cream shortening, margarine and sugar until whipped looking.
2. Add eggs one at a time and vanilla and mix until fluffy.
3. Add baking powder, salt and flour - start with 5 cups and add more if it is too sticky.  You want the dough to be fairly firm when you are done.
4. Chill dough overnight (I don't always do it this long, just make sure to chill for a few hours at least).
5. Roll out and cut into shapes.  Put similarly sized cookies on each ungreased cookie sheet to ensure even cooking.
6. Bake at 375 degrees F for 9-10 minutes (don't let them get brown!).  Cool.
7. Either eat as they are or frost and enjoy!

Frosting

1/3 cup soft margarine
1/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp salt
1 lb (3 1/2 cups) powdered sugar
food coloring optional

Mix together and frost cookies!