Sugar Cookies

Not much cooking has happened in my kitchen this week as I have been busy getting ready for our son's birthday party. He turned two today! The time sure has flown but we have enjoyed every minute. He got his first kitchen for his birthday and I think we have a future Emeril in the making! As part of my preparations for the big party, I made sugar cookies to add to our party favors. We had an Elmo/Sesame Street themed party. I created tags using a cookie monster graphic and the label XXXX's Party was brought to you by the Number 2 and packaged them in cellophane bags. I used Martha Stewart's Sugar Cookie recipe and thought the cookies had a great flavor and were really tender. This recipe would be great for Christmas cookies too. I cheated and used Wilton premade cookie icing instead of making my own royal icing. Its a really great product. My only complaint is that it doesn't allow you to make a very good border before you flood the cookie like the royal icing does.

Sugar Cookies
Source: Martha Stewart

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons brandy, or milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1. Whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder in a medium bowl. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream butter and sugar; add dry ingredients, and mix until incorporated. With mixer running, add egg, brandy (or milk), and vanilla; mix until incorporated.
2. Transfer dough to a work surface. Shape into 2 discs, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with nonstick baking mats or parchment paper; set aside.
4. On a lightly floured work surface, roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes, and transfer to prepared baking sheets, leaving an inch in between. Leftover dough can be rolled and cut once more. Bake until lightly golden, about 10 minutes; do not allow to brown. Transfer to wire racks to cool.
5. Decorate with Royal Icing, optional.