Classic Butter Cookies

May need to be doubled for large gatherings.
Yields: 2 1/2 dozen.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
• 1 cup butter
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Cream the butter until light. Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and almond extract.
2. Gradually blend in the flour. Cover and let chill for at least an hour.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C.)
4. Roll dough out on a lightly floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut in desired shapes, using lightly floured cookie cutter. Place cookies on ungreased cookie sheets.
5. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 to 12 minutes or until golden. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Decorate as desired.

Frosting:

Ingredients:

• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla
• 1/4 cup butter

Beat until soft and creamy. Apply to cooled cookies, with sprinkles.