Mom's Sugar Cookies

Sugar Cookies

• 1

  Preheat oven to 350.

• 2

  Mix shortening, sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla. In a separate bowl mix flour, salt, soda, and baking powder. Add to shortening mix. Chill for 2 hours.

• 3

  Roll out to 1/8 inch thickness and cut into shapes.

• 4

  Bake on ungreased cookie sheet 5-8 minutes.

Royal Icing

• 1

  In a large bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar with electric mixers until frothy. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar and beat 5 to 7 minutes until glossy and stiff peaks from when beaters are lifted.

• 2

  Add food coloring, if desired, with a toothpick, a small amount at a time, mixing well after each addition until you get the shade you want.

• 3

  To thin: stir in a few drops of water. Icing should be thin enough to apply with a brush or spatula but thick enough to coat a toothpick without dripping. Makes 2 1/2 cups.