These cookies are good for any occasion.  All you have to do is change cookie cutters.  They are made from simple ingredients that I always keep on hand.  They have a softer texture and a wonderful flavor.  The dough is a dream to work with!

Ingredients

2 cups sugar
1/2 cup butter (at room temperature)
1/2 cup shortening (at room temperature)
1/2 cup buttermilk
3 eggs slightly beaten
1/2 teaspoon soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoons vanilla
5-6 cups plain flour (enough to form a soft dough)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Cream together the shortening, butter and sugar.  Add eggs and vanilla  mix to combine.  In a large bowl, sift 3 cups flour along with soda, salt, and baking powder. Slowly add flour to sugar mixture and 2-3 cups more sifted flour or enough to make a soft dough.  Turn dough out onto floured surface and knead briefly.  Roll dough to 1/4 inch and cut out cookies with festive cookie cutters.  Bake for 10-12 minutes

To decorate with sprinkles:  Brush cut out cookies lightly with water and sprinkle with colored sugar or candies.  Bake as directed.

To decorate with frosting: Bake cookies as directed and cool completely on cooling rack.  Frost with the following soft frosting and sprinkle with candies or melted chocolate.

Frosting:

3 cups confectioners sugar
1/2 cup butter (at room temperature)
5 Tablespoons cream or half and half

Place all ingredients in mixing bowl and mix until smooth.  Frost cookies and enjoy.

~Marsha Bradford