More family tradition: Sugar cookies

I know, I know, I am so late today. I am so sorry but everything seems to be moving so much slower now that the weather has dropped to single digits...including the internet. So okay, running with the theme from yesterday, I thought I'd spend the rest of the week sharing a few more of my family traditions with you. I have to admit, I don't often make cookies. In fact, I really only make them, well, from a box. Ugh, I really hate admitting that but it's true. However, during this time of year, (when my mom is making the homemade dough) I like to make an exception. I am always the designated decorator and I take that job very seriously. It might take me up to 5 min per cookie, no kidding! I have yet to make my mom's famous sugar cookies this year but I plan on doing so very soon. (with Amy Grant blaring in the background of course!) So, I wanted to share the recipe with you...Oh and p.s. this is a great place to stock up on cookie cutters!

Mom's Sugar Cookies

Cream together 1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar

Blend in 1 medium whole egg

or 2 small egg yolks

Sift together and

add to mixture 1/2 tsp. salt

2 tsp. baking powder

2 cups flour(sifted-all-purpose)

Blend into mixture 1/2 tsp. vanilla

Bake on lightly greased cookie sheet at 400 for 8 to 10 minutes

Icing:

• powdered sugar
• water
• food coloring (green and red are a must!)

Preparation: This isn't really an exact measurement. Just pour the powdered sugar in a bowl and slowly add the water while stirring it with a spoon. Keep stirring in water until the icing is a think paste. If it is too runny then just add more powdered sugar. Color the icing as you please! (and don't forget the red hot on the tip of the reindeer's nose!)

(via ?- tell me if you know!)