The Best Butter Cookies

Decorate these rich, buttery cut-out cookies to fit the reason and the season.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 cups (4 sticks) butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
3. Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add flour mixture to butter mixture; mix well.
4. Divide dough into four portions. Roll out one portion at a time on a floured surface to 1/8-inch thick. Cut into shapes with floured cutters and place 1-inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
5. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned. Transfer cookies to a wire rack; let cool.

Makes 5 dozen cookies.