VALENTINE SUGAR COOKIES

There is still time to whip up a batch of sugar cookies for your favorite sweetie in time for Valentine's Day!  Here is a basic tried and true recipe from the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook I received as  a wedding gift in 1977.

2/3 cup shortening
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. vanilla

1 egg
4 tsp. milk
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 tsp. salt

Thoroughly cream shortening, sugar, and vanilla.  Add egg.  Beat until light and fluffy.  Stir in milk.  Sift together dry ingredients and blend into creamed mixture.  Divide dough in half. Chill at least one hour (I sometimes chill it overnight).  On a lightly floured surface roll or pat into 1/8 to 1/4 inch thinkness.  Cut into heart shapes.  Bake on greased cookie sheet at 350-375 (the recipe says 375 but my oven always seems hot so I scale back to 350).  Bake for 6-8 minutes.  Cool slightly.  Remove from pan.  Makes about 2 dozen.

Here's my own editorial comment--always use REAL vanilla.  I know the imitation stuff is cheaper and no one likes a bargain more than I do, but you really can taste a difference. 

To ice these little bits of heaven, mix two cups of powdered sugar with 1/2 tsp. of vanilla and enough lemon juice to get it to spreading consistency.  Add a few drops of red food coloring to your desired shade of pink or red.  Spread on cooled cookies.  Add sprinkles before the icing sets if you want to be really fancy!  Wishing you love and happiness this Valentine's Day!

Nanette