Sugar Cookies

Sugar cookies are one of my favorite cookies... but I am really picky about what kind. I personally like soft ones (not hard) that don't have a strong cream of tarter/baking soda taste and I don't really care for store bought. I have tried a lot of recipes over the years (I lost this one for awhile and was trying to find a new good one) and I always come back to these. I have also included my favorite frosting.

PS If you don't feel like rolling them out...Make the dough and immediately roll into balls. Place the balls on the cookie sheet and then take a cup and dip the bottom of the cup in a bowl of sugar and then use the cup to press down the cookies. Bake like normal. Still able to frost and still delicious.
Submitted by Shelly

Deluxe Sugar Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 t vanilla
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cream of tartar

Mix butter and confectioner's sugar till smooth. Add egg and vanilla. Blend in flour, soda, and cream of tartar. Cover and chill 2-3 hours. Preheat oven to 375. Divide dough in half. Roll each half 3/16 inch thick on lightly floured surface. Cut into desired shapes. Place on lightly greased baking sheet. Bake 7-8 minutes or until very light brown on edge (do not over cook or they will be crunchy)

Makes about 5 dozen 2 inch cookies

Butter Frosting

1/3 cup butter
4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
milk
food coloring (optional)

1. Beat butter until fluffy. Gradually add 2 cups of the powdered sugar, beating well. Slowly beat in the 1/4 cup milk and the vanilla.
2. Slowly beat in remaining powdered sugar. Beat in additional milk if needed to get spreading consistency. Add food coloring if desired.