c is for cookie...

This is my all-time favorite sugar cookie recipe, given to me by my mom. I was about a week late getting these valentine cookies done, so I opted for spring colors (I went with hearts anyway). ♥

Sugar Cookies
3/4 cup softened butter
3/4 cup shortening
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
4 cups all purpose flour

Cream butter and shortening, then add sugar, baking powder and salt. Beat to combine then add eggs and vanilla. Mix in flour 1 cup at a time. Cover and chill for 1 hour or overnight. If left in overnight, take out the dough 20-30 minutes before you are ready to bake.
Preheat oven to 350, roll out dough, cut and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are starting to get golden brown.

Royal Icing
3 ounces pasteurized egg whites
1 teaspoon vanilla
4 cups confectioners sugar

Combine the egg whites and vanilla and beat until frothy. Add sugar gradually and mix on low speed until sugar is incorporated and the mixture is shiny. Turn up speed to high and beat until mixture forms stiff, glossy peaks. Add food coloring if desired and spread on cookies (is awesome on gingerbread cookies too).