Sugar Cut-Out Cookies

2 c. butter (softened but still cold - leave at room temp. about an hour)

2 c. granulated sugar

2 large eggs

2 Tblsp. vanilla

4 tsp. baking powder

6 c. all purpose flour

1. Add the 4 sticks (2 cups) of butter and 2 cups of sugar to your mixer.

2. Cream the butter & sugar until it is completely mixed (3 minutes on medium high)

3. Add vanilla and eggs.

4. Mix the dough until light & fluffy (~ 3 minutes)

5. Add baking powder & mix.

6. Mix in the 6 cups of flour two cups at a time. Don't overmix the dough - only until flour is incorporated.

7. After you add the flour the dough should be firm but not dry or crumbly. If it seems too dry, add a tiny bit of vanilla or milk and mix again.

8. Roll a handful of the dough out on a prepared surface until about 3/8" thick.

9. Cut out shapes with cookie cutter.

10. Bake in pre-heated 350F oven for 6-10 minutes depending on the size of the cookie. DO NOT OVERBAKE. They might not look done - They should be set and just beginning to slightly brown around the edges. Let them cool before icing.